HOLLYWOOD, Calif. — Behind his stunning portrayal of the Joker in the Batman movie "The Dark Knight," Heath Ledger won best supporting actor honors at Sunday's Academy Awards, becoming just the second actor to win an Oscar posthumously.
Ledger's victory comes just 13 months ago after his death from an accidental prescription drug overdose. His family — father Kim, mother Sally, and sister Kate — accepted the honor on behalf of the Australian-born star.
"I have to say this is ever so humbling, just being amongst such wonderful people in such a wonderful industry," Kim Ledger told the audience, many of which, like Brad Pitt, had tears in their eyes. "We'd like to thank the academy for recognizing our son's amazing work, Warner Bros., and Christopher Nolan in particular for allowing Heath the creative license to develop and explore this crazy Joker character."
Ledger's family has stated that the Oscar will go to his 3-year-old daughter, Matilda, with his former girlfriend, actress Michelle Williams.
"We proudly accept this award on behalf of your beautiful Matilda," Kate Ledger told the crowd.
On the one-year anniversary of his death last month, Kate, his older sister, along with his two half-sisters, Ashleigh and Olivia, spoke to the media while standing at Cottesloe Beach, one of Ledger's favorite hangouts and the site of his wake in his native Australia.
"Although we would love to have him here with us, we are so proud and so excited on his behalf," expressed Ashleigh. "In Heath's words, he had the time of his life portraying the Joker and said that it was the most fun he'd ever had working on a film. On Heath's behalf we thank the Motion Picture Academy for recognizing his work."
"What an unbelievable legacy he has left for Matilda and our family," added Ashleigh. "We will take this opportunity to honor his wonderful life and take comfort in knowing Heath will continue to touch future generations through this amazing art form."
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