“Tragic, untimely, accidental”

Those three words – in a statement by his family – ultimately capture the shocking death of Australian actor Heath Ledger, only 28, found dead in his New York apartment yesterday; it is speculated that he died from an accidental drug overdose, possibly sleeping pills.

John Travolta has said he is “pretty devastated,” which I think sums up our reactions to Ledger’s sudden death. Such a young man, a talented and well-respected actor, and a devoted father. It’s just so hard to comprehend, and sad to believe.

A bit of a larrikin – albeit a good looking one – his easy going attitude belied a dedicated actor known for roles in Ned Kelly, Candy, and perhaps most famously, for which he earned a Best Actor nomination, Brokeback Mountain.

My favourite of all his roles is that of Patrick Verona in 10 Things I Hate About You, an adaptation of The Taming of the Shrew, in which he plays a hardcore and rebellious teenager paid to woo a certain aloof girl. He plays the role with impish ease and a roguish grin, and that’s how I like to remember him.

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Just a girl