Christopher Nolan Pays Homage to Late Great Heath Ledger in His First Golden Globe Win

Christopher Nolan won best director for Oppenheimer at last night’s Golden Globes and did not hesitate to mention his late great actor friend, Heath Ledger in his acceptance speech.

It will be 16 years since the actor passed away on January 22, 2008. Ledger passed before his iconic portrayal of The Joker in Nolan’s film The Dark Knight, which would be released for fans everywhere to see that summer.

“The only time I’ve ever been on this stage before was accepting one of these on behalf of our dear friend, Heath Ledger, and that was complicated and challenging for me,” stated Nolan.

Nolan credited Robert Downey Jr., who also won the Best Supporting Male Actor award at the Golden Globes for his role in Oppenheimer, for helping him during that challenging Ledger speech.

“In the middle of speaking, I glanced up, and Robert Downey Jr. caught my eye and gave me a look of love and support—the same look he’s giving me now. The same love and support he’s shown so many people in our community over so many years.” Nolan continued.

Christopher Nolan mentioning Heath Ledger in his speech from the last time he was up there #GoldenGlobes #heathledger pic.twitter.com/gpVvZl3qR4

— Txguy234 (@sathrifting) January 8, 2024

Nolan and his highly successful blockbuster film Oppenheimer, along with Greta Gerwig’s Barbie, created a pop culture phenomenon, with many people running to see the films on opening weekend. To many, it is Nolan’s best picture since he collaborated with Ledger in The Dark Knight, as Oppenheimer is his third highest-grossing film behind The Dark Knight and The Dark Knight Rises.

In 2024, Nolan is still making films that not only gross big at the box office but also provide challenging messages and themes for his audiences to experience.

Nolan should be considered for best director and Oppenheimer for best picture at the 96 Academy Awards on March 10.

Today, people still remember and adore the incredible performance Ledger gave to movie fans. Ledger won the Oscar for Best Supporting Actor in 2008, and fans hope Nolan takes the torch in 2024.