Late Australian actor Heath Ledger has won the posthumous award for best supporting actor for his role in The Dark Knight at the 81st Academy Awards.
The award was accepted by Ledger’s father Kim, mother Sally and sister Kate, who insisted the night was a time for celebration.
“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,” said Mr Ledger.
“We proudly accept this award on behalf of your beautiful Matilda,” said Ledger’s sister, Kate.
The other nominee’s included,
Josh Brolin – Milk
Robert Downey Jnr – Tropic Thunder
Philip Seymour Hoffman – Doubt
Michael Shannon – Revolutionary Road