February 22, 2009 Belongs to Heath

The lighthearted host montage is over. There is a palpable electricity weaving throughout the crowd; the buzz is hushed and respectful. Everyone in that room is quite aware which category begins the evening, which golden statue will be handed out first.

The nominees each offer a polite smile when announced, but have no intention of taking the stage.  It is not their turn. Not this year.

Even before Javier Bardem opens the envelope, he knows.  The eyes of the world are upon him, awaiting his delivery of the most anticipated name in award ceremony history. Heath Ledger.

The Kodak Theatre erupts in thundering applause and a lengthy standing ovation accompanies Michelle Williams’ short walk up to the podium. There are quiet tears streaming down the faces of the millions across the globe who are glued to their televisions, as well as silent fists of victory thrust in the air from myriad viewers. She accepts the Oscar for Best Supporting Actor for The Dark Knight on his behalf, and dedicates it to their daughter.  Her words are as brief and poignant as his might have been.

It is an honor which somehow eluded him the first time around, but one which he deserves both in life and in death.

A man capable of such magnificent and mesmerizing transformation, Heath Ledger is recognized and remembered. Finally and forever.