Heath Ledger

Upon hearing the news of Heath Ledger's death from a co-worker while working, I laughed, because it had to be a joke. When assured it wasn't I checked it out online and sure enough, it was not a joke. I was completely shocked that such a young guy, only 9 years older than me, could of died just so suddenly. I was also shocked that it was Heath Ledger, a guy who always seemed so cool and down to earth.

When I tried to express how sad I thought Heath's death was, I was met with a slew of "Brokeback Mountain" jokes, which was of course followed by the ridicule I often receive for even watching "Brokeback Mountain". I think this saddened me even more. Not only did he die, not only did we lose one of our best and most promising actors, but he is also remembered by a large idiotic portion of the public as the butt of a never ending gay joke. People are just so ignorant to laugh at that movie and at the performance Heath gave because it was a truly moving and memorable performance.

I know that some people might think that I am weird to get so saddened over the death of a man I barely knew or a celebrity, but I can't help it. I feel that he did touch me in some way and any sad attempt I have ever made at acting has been influenced by him. I also feel the loss of the great things I know he would have done. He was always concerned with being an actor rather than a star, and he ended up being both. I truly hope, though it is wishful thinking, he gets some sort of Oscar recognition for his last role in "The Dark Knight". If Johnny Depp can be nominated for "Pirates of the Caribbean", then Heath Ledger can most certainly get the same treatment for his performance.

I ask all of you, dear readers, please remember Heath Ledger and remember what a great actor he was. Don't let him become the butt of a joke told by the ignorant masses. Remember him as a great actor and artist, a loving father, and a man who always seemed to be down to earth.

He will be missed.