Heath Ledger’s father heard about his son’s death in the news

Actor’s dad last to learn he had passed away

Friday, 25 January 2008

Heath Ledger’s heartbroken father heard about his son’s untimely death through media reports.

The actor’s uncle Neil Bell has revealed some of the Hollywood star's family were the last people to learn the devastating news.

‘I heard about his death in the press, and I called his mother to find out what was happening, and even she didn’t know,’ he tells People.com.

‘Heath’s father found out through the press … It’s a pretty devastating way to find out.’

The actor’s parents – who live in Australia – have since written loving tributes to their 28-year old son in the West Australian newspaper.

His father Kim writes:

‘ … my beautiful boy, so loving, so talented, so independent, so caring, so young … no more chess games, mate … this is it, couldn’t beat you anyway!

‘My body aches for the sound of your voice, our chats, our laughs and our life and times together.

‘Your truly varied artistic skills, insatiable desire to improve and eclectic abilities set you apart from any other person on the planet … we were one, in soul and commitment. Just … Father and Son. I will love you forever, Dad.’

His mother Sally writes:

‘Our darling boy, special in so many ways to all of us. You knew you were so loved. You lived life with courage and daring and we are so grateful for the wonderful times we shared. We will be there for Matilda. Your loving Mamma, Rog and Ash.’

Heath’s family will arrive in New York today for his funeral but have refused to release any specific information about plans for his interment.

Meanwhile Mary-Kate Olsen is set to be questioned by police over the phone calls exchanged between her and masseuse Diana Wolozin in the moments after the star's body was discovered, reports the NY Post.