Heath's "quiet determination" honoured by family, peers
23/02/2009 9:31:00 PM.
Ledger's family pay tribute

Heath Ledger’s family has delivered a touching speech while accepting the late actor’s Oscar for Best Supporting Actor.

The Academy Awards audience was clearly moved as Leger’s father, Kim, mother, Sally and sister, Kate picked up his gong for his role in The Dark Knight.

“First of all I'd have to say this is ever so humbling - being amongst such wonderful people in such a wonderful industry,” Kim Ledger said.

“This award tonight would have humbly validated Heath's quiet determination to be truly accepted by you all here, his peers within an industry he so loved.”

While his sister paid tribute to the extraordinary performance in the Batman film.

“Heath, we both knew what you had created in the Joker was extraordinarily special and had even talked about being here on this very day,” Kate said.

“We really wish you were, but we proudly accept this award on behalf of your beautiful Matilda.”