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The Backlash to Heath Ledger’s Joker Casting Proved How Wrong Fans Can Be
ComicBook.comStory by Catherine Delgado
scrn logline
How an unconventional casting choice and fan backlash led to Heath Ledger's iconic Joker performance in 'The Dark Knight'
beat sheet
- Director Christopher Nolan faced intense criticism for casting Ledger as the Joker, with fans doubting the actor's ability to pull off the dark, maniacal villain - but Nolan stuck to his guns, knowing Ledger would surprise everyone.
- Ledger's dedicated, improvisational approach to the Joker, from the makeup to the unique voice, became the stuff of legend, inspiring actors and proving that early fan judgments can be wrong when it comes to unconventional casting choices.
call sheet
Heath Ledger, Christopher Nolan, Jonathan Nolan, Warner Bros., The Dark Knight, Brokeback Mountain