Heath Ledger Scholarship Award

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oi-Staff

By Staff

Thursday, February 26, 2009, 11:00

The fact that you cannot replace a good actor remains unchanged. However, to maintain the memory of the late actor Heath Ledger, a scholarship has been established and his name has been awarded to Australian performer Oliver Ackland.

The scholarship was established by Ledger's ex-fiancee Michelle Williams and friends. It amounts up to 7000 pounds since his death in 2008. The scholarship was handed over to Ackland at a party for Australian Oscar nominees at Hollywood's Chateau Marmont Hotel on February 20. He was hand picked from 150 applicants by Ledger's pals and friends including actress Rachel Griffths. Greg Jordan presented the award, he had also directed Ledger in 'Two Hands'.

Rachel Griffiths said "How do we judge this? Are we looking for the next Heath Ledger?" the Daily Star quoted him as saying.

"We all said No. There is no next Heath Ledger, but there's plenty of other people", he added.

The award meant a lot to Ackland, 29, who idolised Ledger all his life. "The fact that it is in his name means the world. I admired Heath and I admired the work that he chose, the path he created for himself. It shows a lot of integrity on his behalf," he said.

The bursay is contributed by Australian stars Nicole Kidman, Naomi Watts and Hugh Jackman, which includes flights to Los Angeles and introductions to agents and casting directors.

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