Heath Ledger wins his Oscar for The Dark Knight

[Grimmace]

Heath Ledger wins his Oscar for The Dark Knight

By Peta Hellard in Hollywood

February 23, 2009 02:10pm

HEATH Ledger has been immortalised by Hollywood, with the late actor winning an Oscar 13 months after his tragic death.

Ledger's father Kim, mother Sally and older sister Kate accepted the award, with each emotional as they spoke Kate said her brother had dreamed of making it to the Oscars for his role as maniacal villain The Joker in Batman blockbuster The Dark Knight.

"We really wish you were (here) but we proudly accept this award on behalf of your beautiful Matilda," she said, her voice cracking with emotion.

Ledger's mother Sally said it was not an evening for sadness. "Tonight we are choosing to celebrate and be happy for what he achieved," she said.

"Heath was such a compassion and generous soul who added so much to our lives." Mr Ledger said his son would have been proud to receive the award, which was determined by his fellow actors. "This award tonight would have humbly validated Heath's quiet determination to be accepted by his peers," he said.

Ledger won best supporting actor for his role. Ledger is only the second performer in the Oscar's 81-year history to win a posthumous Oscar in an acting category.

Before the winner was announced, Ledger was introduced by 1989 supporting actor winner Kevin Kline in a moving speech.

"Heath Ledger has left us an original and enduring legacy," Kline said.

Ledger died at age 28 in January last year from an accidental overdose of prescription medication in a luxury loft in New York.

Source: Daily Telegraph

[DIEHARD]

I'm so proud of him, he deserved it even if he was still alive. Such an incredible performance.

The Oscars are live on TV now for any interested and will be replayed tonight.