Heath Ledger’s sudden passing at just 28 years old in January 2008 left the world in shock. The beloved actor widely celebrated for his iconic 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 did ultimately go on to receive her father’s entire estate, in 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 very beginning that Matilda would be taken care of.
Why Heath Ledger’s family gave everything to Matilda
Following his passing, Ledger’s parents Kim and Sally, and his sisters Kate, Olivia and Ashleigh, insisted that Matilda and her mother Michelle Williams would be fully provided for. “Matilda is an absolute priority and Michelle is an integral part of our family. They will be taken care of and that’s how Heath would want it to be,” they told the publication at the time.Matilda was subsequently chosen as the sole beneficiary of Heath’s estate. His father later confirmed that this was never in doubt. “Our family has gifted everything to Matilda. There was never any question about the fact that Heath’s estate would go to Matilda. Never a question. We are very close to Michelle and Matilda,” he said.
Heath Ledger’s famous co-stars stepped in to help too
It was not just the Ledger family who rallied around Matilda. Johnny Depp, Colin Farrell, and Jude Law all reportedly donated their entire salaries from Heath’s final 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 the film could be completed. Director Terry Gilliam described the gesture as “extraordinary and wonderful.“
Matilda Ledger ‘s life today
Matilda, now 20, continues to live in New York City with her mother Michelle, who has since married theatre director Thomas Kail and shares three children with him. Matilda’s famous godparents Jake Gyllenhaal and Busy Phillipps have been a presence in her life, as has ‘Succession’ star Jeremy Strong, a close friend of Michelle’s who moved in with the mother and daughter for a period of time.Michelle once reflected on the role Strong played in Matilda’s life, telling Variety that he was serious enough to hold the weight of a child’s broken heart and sensitive enough to approach her through play and games and silliness. “Matilda didn’t grow up with her father, but she grew up with her Jeremy and we were changed by his ability to play as though his life depended upon it, because hers did,” she said.Heath had spoken about becoming a father with unmistakable joy shortly after Matilda was born. “Matilda is adorable, and beautifully observant and wise,” he told InTouch. “Michelle and I love her so much. Becoming a father exceeds all my expectations. It’s the most remarkable experience I’ve ever had.”Matilda has been raised largely away from the public eye, with both her family and those who were close to her father continuing to ensure she has been well looked after since his passing.DISCLAIMER: Figures presented in this article are derived from various public sources and are considered approximate unless explicitly noted. We may include direct input from celebrities or their teams when available. We are open to feedback on toientertainment@timesinternet.in.
