Who Inherited Heath Ledger's Money After His Death?
Heath Ledger was born in April 1979 in Perth, Western Australia and had big dreams of becoming an actor. After leaving school at the age of 17 to pursue a career in acting, per Biography, Ledger landed a role on the Australian television series "Sweat." He continued to book more gigs in TV and officially made his movie debut after landing a role the 1997 film "Blackrock."
Ledger made quite the name for himself in his hometown and became a breakout star in Australia. However, it was his role in the 1999 American film "10 Things I Hate About You" that kickstarted his career and solidified his purpose in the industry. Ledger proved to have a promising future with roles in films like "A Knight's Tale," "The Brothers Grimm," and, of course, "Brokeback Mountain" — which was also nominated for eight Oscars, including Best Actor for Ledger.
Ledger's talent was undeniable — and he went from a young lad with dreams that could touch the sky to one of Hollywood's most notable actors. Therefore, his untimely death in 2008 — Ledger was only 28 — shocked the world.
Heath Ledger left his entire estate to daughter Matilda
When anyone passes — let alone a high-caliber star — things can get messy when it comes to claiming the person's estate and deciding who will get the money that is left. However, in terms of Heath Ledger's almost $20 million estate, every single dime was left to his daughter Matilda Ledger, per TODAY.
According to the outlet, Ledger signed a will — over two years before his daughter was born — leaving everything to his parents and sister. But his father Kim Ledger felt it was best for his granddaughter to keep it all. "Our family has gifted everything to Matilda," he said.
The now 16-year-old, who many say is her father's twin, has managed to live a very, private life with her mother Michelle Williams, according to People. Though their lives were forever changed, Matilda will always know her dad Heath Ledger will forever be a legend.
Heath Ledger leaves behind a legacy no one can replicate
Heath Ledger was one of the greatest actors of his generation; with every role he completely immersed himself into his character and always put on a stellar performance. However, it was his role as the Joker in the 2008 film "The Dark Knight" launched him from a great actor to a legendary one — even winning a posthumous Best Actor award at the 2009 Oscars.
Despite the movie breaking records in the box office and Ledger creating a moment in movie history millions will never forget, he unfortunately never got to see the impact and legacy he left on "The Dark Knight." On January 22, 2008, TMZ reported that Ledger was found in his bed unconscious at his home in New York. His death was ruled an "acute intoxication by the combined effects of oxycodone, hydrocodone, diazepam, temazepam, alprazolam, and doxylamine" by the NYC Medical Examiner, the site noted.
The actor will always be remembered by his movies, and his legacy will also forever live on through his daughter, Matilda.