'10 Things I Hate About You' remains a classic romantic comedy that propelled the late Heath Ledger into stardom. The film showcased his 'boy next door' charm and established him as one of the most talented actors of his generation. Years after his passing, the movie is considered ahead of its time, and Ledger is still celebrated for his remarkable career. Here is the story of how he landed the role through a simple favor that changed his life.
How Heath Ledger Beat Over 200 Actors for the Role
In an old interview with Entertainment Weekly, director Gil Junger revealed how Ledger secured the part. He described Ledger as 'magic' and noted that he outperformed 253 other candidates who had auditioned for the role. Junger explained that he and five casting agents had already interviewed 253 men when Ledger was added last minute. Marcia Ross, head of Disney casting, told Junger, 'Look, this next kid, I don't know him. It's a favor for an agent I respect. So if he's no good, just stop it and send him on his way.'
Junger admitted he was very picky and had low expectations, but everything changed when Ledger walked in. 'And this is the God's honest truth, on my parents' life: He took three steps into the room, and my thought was, If this f---er can read English, I'm going to cast him,' Junger shared. He also recalled Ledger's magnetism and confidence, saying, 'He just was so confident and loving and wanted to be the best he could be. He was just an incredible young man.'
Heath Ledger Was the Final Choice
In a later interview with Barry Katz, Junger reiterated how impressed he was. 'He was hired before he got to his car,' he commented. He also revealed that the moment the 17-year-old Ledger left the room, Junger told everyone that he wanted him in the film. Heath Ledger passed away in January 2008 at age 28 due to an accidental overdose.
