The Celebrity Truth

Many of Hollywood‘s finest have come out praising Heath Ledger after the Australian actor was found dead in his New York apartment on Tuesday (January 22).

Ledger, who will star posthumously as The Joker in one of this year‘s most anticipated movies, ‘The Dark Knight‘, earned the respect of his Hollywood constituents, several of whom have paid tribute to the 28-year-old.

Mara Buxbaum, Ledger’s Publicist: "We are deeply saddened and shocled by this accident.  This is an extremely difficult time for his loved ones.  We’re asking the media to please respect the family’s privacy and avoid speculation until the facts are known."

Warner Bros: "The studio is stunned and devastated by this tragic news.  The entertainment community has lost an enormous talent.  Heath was a brilliant actor and an exceptional person."

Nicole Kidman: "It’s a tragedy.  My heart goes out to his family,"

Mel Gibson: "I had such great hope for him.  He was just taking off and to lose his life at such a young age is a tragic loss.  My thoughts and prayers are with him and his family."

John Travolta: "I am devastated.  I loved Heath.  He is probably my favorite actor.  I don’t like what has happened at all, so I am very sad about it."

Cate Blanchett: "I am shocked and very saddened by the news.  I deeply respect Heath’s work and always admired his continuing development as an artist.  My thoughts are with his family and close friends."

Charlize Theron: "It’s really, really sad.  I hope his family is okay.  I wish them the best."

Dennis Hopper: "I’m sorry to hear that.  He was a great talent."

James Schamus, CEO of Focus Features, producer of Brokeback Mountain: "Heath Ledger was a courageous actor, and a great soul.  He gave us the gift of sharing his fealess and beautiful love – of his craft, and of all who worked with him – for which all of us will be eternally grateful."

Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd: "It was with great sadness that I have learned of the passing of Heath Ledger.  It is tragic that we have lost one of our nation’s finest actors in the prime of his life.  Heath Ledger’s diverse and challenging roles will be remembered as some of the great performances by an Australian actor." 

Next Truth: Academy Award Nominations Announced 

Photo courtesy of Columbia Pictures. 

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