Influenced by the cultural wave of late ’90s nostalgia and emotional reactions online, Dancing with the Stars is being credited with stirring up these sentiments.
During a recent live dedication show, actress Julia Stiles honored her former co-star Heath Ledger from the iconic film 10 Things I Hate About You.
Stiles wasn’t alone in reminiscing about the late actor as other cast members from the 1999 teen comedy also appeared to pay their respects.
In a heartfelt performance, Stiles and her dance partner Ezra Sosa showcased a contemporary routine set to the tune of Can’t Take My Eyes Off You by Frankie Valli. The dance was a nod to Ledger’s character serenading Stiles’s character in the movie.
Reflecting on her time with Ledger, Stiles expressed her genuine admiration for him, wishing she could reach out to him and acknowledge the impact of their work together.
The poignant dance concluded with a touching moment as Sosa left a rose on the floor beneath a photo of Ledger, followed by a reunion with Stiles’s 10 Things co-stars.
During a conversation with host Julianne Hough post-performance, Stiles shared her thoughts on the dance, reminiscing about the carefree spirit Ledger brought to the set and how he made everyone shine.
The evening was filled with emotional tributes, including Tatyana Ali’s dedication to her late Fresh Prince of Bel-Air co-star James Avery, with Alfonso Ribeiro joining her for a special routine.
In the end, Ledger, who tragically passed away from an accidental overdose in 2008 at the age of 28, was remembered for his talent and posthumous Oscar win for his compelling portrayal of the Joker in The Dark Knight.
Receiving high scores, Stiles and Sosa delivered a memorable performance that resonated with fans, evoking strong emotions and showcasing the enduring impact of Ledger’s legacy.