Iconic British actor Sir Michael Caine has reflected on the death of his Dark Knight co-star Heath Ledger, following his tragic death in New York in 2008 at the age of 28.
In his new memoir, called Don’t Look Back, You’ll Trip Over: My Guide to Life, Caine, 92, said his death “still makes me sad to think of it” with excerpts reported by People.
He also goes on to commend Ledger’s acting ability and said his transformation to become the villainous Joker in the hit film was “chilling”.
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“Heath was only 28 when he passed away… You think of what he might have gone on to achieve, it’s just heartbreaking,” he reportedly wrote.
He also describes Ledger as “lovely” and “gentle”.
Speaking about Ledger’s portrayal of the Joker, he added: “[It] Absolutely floored me the first time I saw him in action – I was terrified.”
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Ledger, who hailed from Perth, died in 2008 in New York at the age of 28.
That same year, The Dark Knight came out and later he posthumously won the Academy Award and a Golden Globe for Best Supporting Actor for his role.
It’s reported he died following an accidental prescription drug overdose.
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Despite his young years, before his death Ledger found huge success in Hollywood and was known for roles including 10 Things I Hate About You, Brokeback Mountain and A Knights Tale.
Naomi Watts once reflected on Ledger and told Parade: “There was a wonderful mixture of power and fragility at work in everything he did, which just pulls you in. His strength didn’t scare you. It intrigued you. And his fragility touched you.”
Heath Ledger: Photos through the years
Caine confirmed his retirement from acting in 2023, with the Oscar winner last filming The Great Escaper which came out that same year.
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