LEDGER A NO-SHOW AT DARK KNIGHT PREMIERE
Samantha Dryden, Entertainment Correspondent
July 16 2008
New York, NY – The “The Dark Knight” has descended on New York and the world. The hotly anticipated title, already selling out at theatres nationwide, is the absolute must see Hollywood release of the summer and likely the year. The star studded premiere launched the blockbuster-to-be in style, though with one star noticeably absent.
Heath Ledger, who is already receiving critical plaudits and Oscar buzz, was noticeably absent from the New York screening. His role as the Joker is seen as the pivotal role in the film, driving not only the frenzied interest in the picture, but also elevating the film from its comic book roots to the status of instant classic. Despite that, The Australian born star was nowhere to be seen.
Stars Michael Caine, Gary Oldman, Christian Bale, Maggie Gyllenhaal, Aaron Eckhart and Morgan Freeman were all on hand at the glitzy premiere, though none would speak about the absence of their prominent cast mate.
While some news reports over the last few months have indicated that the acclaimed actor had died, the actions of the studio and media indicate that this may have been little more than an elaborate prank. With his presence so prominent on posters and trailers, it is unlikely that such prestigious organizations such as Warner Brothers would be so callous as to exploit a deceased actor.
“While it does seem a little exploitive, the studio really had no choice. It’s the typical show must go on attitude I suppose,” said celebrity blogger Gaseous. “Of course it wouldn’t be too much for a corporation to exploit the dead in order to make more money, they likely wouldn’t do that in such a public atmosphere. Ultimately it’s not about sympathy; it’s about money and the best way to make it.”
A call placed to Ledger’s Los Angeles agent met with a terse “Are you serious”, a phrase that echoed the film’s tagline, further deepening the mystery.
“I had heard some chatter that this might be an elaborate publicity stunt to promote the movie,” continued Gaseous. “But I think that’s ridiculous. Ledger is dead and continuing this kind of talk is just silly and a little disrespectful to be honest. He had a family and a young daughter. This conversation is over.”
The studio had no comment on or request for an interview regarding the situation. Our calls to the Ledger family also went unanswered. “The Dark Knight” opens on Friday.
