Heath Ledger’s Parents Speak Out on 5th Anniversary of His Death

By Breanne L. Heldman | omg! – Mon, Jan 14, 2013 1:13 PM PST

 

Heath Ledger (Getty Images)Matilda and Michelle Williams (FameFlynet)

 

Can you believe it’s been almost five years since Heath Ledger’s sudden and tragic death?

In honor of the sad anniversary, the Oscar winner’s parents Sally and Kim spoke with Australian magazine New Idea (via RadarOnline) about their son’s death, as well as their adorable grandchild, Matilda, who’s now 7 years old.

If you recall, Ledger died at age 28 on January 22, 2008, of an accidental overdose, leaving behind little Matilda and her mom, ex-girlfriend Michelle Williams. But anyone who’s ever looked at a photo of Matilda would agree that Ledger lives on – she looks exactly like him.

“Matilda is indeed very much like her dad – she has long limbs and similar features,” Sally Ledger told the magazine. “However, she also possesses the beauty of her mamma – lucky girl.”
Matilda Ledger (Jackson Lee / Splash News)

“Matilda has the same walk as Heath and is such a respectful little kid – she calls us ‘Papa’ and ‘Grandma Sal,’” Heath’s father added. “Our family has the most wonderful relationship with both Matilda and Michelle. We talk frequently and visit as often as we can.”

For her part, Williams appears to be in a happy place, having maintained a seemingly strong relationship with Jason Segel for nearly a year. Back in April, a source told Us Weekly that Matilda “loves Jason” and soon after adorable pictures of the two of them playing in the park hit the Web.
Matilda stands to inherit all of her father's financial legacy.

"Our family has gifted everything to Matilda," Kim told People in 2008. "That was the plan from the moment my boy passed away. There was never any question about the fact that Heath’s estate would go to Matilda."

Needless to say, Heath continues to be missed by those whose lives he touched, but it warms our hearts to see his family thriving.