Heath Ledger

Heath Ledger's tragic death cut short a career that seemed headed for the very highest level of stardom. Ledger's easygoing charisma and powerful, understated acting formed a unique combination that seemed destined to shine for many years to come. His groundbreaking performance inBrokeback Mountainled to roles as diverse as the title role inCasanova,Bob Dylan inI'm Not There,the Joker inThe Dark Knight, and one of the four "Tonys" inThe Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus. More great performances would doubtless have followed, were it not for the actor's tragic death in January 2008.