Heath Ledger’s sudden death at the age of 28 in January 2008 left the world in shock. The beloved actor, widely celebrated for his breakout performances in The Dark Knight and 10 Things I Hate About You, left behind a $16.3 million fortune that did not include his only daughter, Matilda, in his will.
Despite this, Matilda eventually went on to receive her father’s entire estate, a turn of events that speaks to the strength and unity of the Ledger family.According to People, Heath’s will was written in 2003, two years before Matilda was born, leaving his entire estate to his parents and sisters. However, the family made their intentions clear from the beginning that Matilda would be taken care of.
Why did Heath Ledger’s family give everything to Matilda?
After his death, Ledger’s parents, Kim and Sally, and his sisters Kate, Olivia and Ashley, insisted on providing full care for Matilda and her mother, Michelle Williams.
They told the publication at the time: “Matilda is an absolute priority and Michelle is an integral part of our family. They will be taken care of and that’s what Heath wants it to be.”Matilda was subsequently chosen as the sole beneficiary of the Heath estate. His father later confirmed that this was never in doubt. “Our family gave everything to Matilda. There was never any doubt about the fact that the Heath estate would go to Matilda.
Never question. “We are very close to Michel and Matilda.”
Heath Ledger’s famous stars stepped in to help, too
It wasn’t just the Ledger family that rallied around Matilda. Johnny Depp, Colin Farrell and Jude Law have reportedly donated their entire salaries from Heath’s latest film to his young daughter. The Hollywood trio stepped in to play different versions of Heath’s character in The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus so that the film could be completed. Director Terry Gilliam described the gesture as “extraordinary and wonderful.”
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Matilda Ledger Today’s life
Matilda, now 20, still lives in New York City with her mother Michelle, who has since married theater director Thomas Kail with whom she has three children. Matilda’s famous godparents, Jake Gyllenhaal and Busy Phillips, were present in her life, as was “Succession” star Jeremy Strong, a close friend of Michelle’s who moved in with mother and daughter for a while.Michele once reflected on the role Strong played in Matilda’s life, telling Variety that he was serious enough to bear the weight of a child’s broken heart and sensitive enough to approach her through play, games, and silliness.
“Matilda didn’t grow up with her father, but she grew up with Jeremy and we were changed by his ability to play as if his life depended on it, because her life depended on it,” she said.Heath spoke of becoming a father with unequivocal joy shortly after Matilda was born. “Matilda is wonderful, committed and beautifully wise,” he told InTouch. “Michelle and I love her so much. Becoming a father exceeds all my expectations.
“It’s the most amazing experience I’ve ever had.”Matilda has grown up largely out of the public eye, with her family and those close to her father continuing to ensure she is well cared for since his death.Disclaimer: The figures in this article are derived from various public sources and are considered approximate unless expressly indicated. We may include direct input from celebrities or their teams when available. We are open for feedback at toientertainment@timesinternet.in.
