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Julia Stiles Reflects on Iconic Role and Fond Memories of Heath Ledger

The actress shares how her role in '10 Things I Hate About You' shaped her career and remembers the late Heath Ledger's lasting impact.

  • Julia Stiles credits her role as Kat Stratford in '10 Things I Hate About You' with helping her embrace confidence as a teenage actress facing industry pressures.
  • Stiles recalls Heath Ledger as a kind and generous co-star whose presence lit up every room, making her first leading role a memorable experience.
  • She highlighted the emotional resonance of filming the movie, particularly during the iconic classroom poem scene and the playful paintball date sequence.
  • Ledger's tragic death in 2008 at the age of 28 was caused by an accidental overdose involving a combination of prescription medications.
  • Stiles reflects on the enduring impact of the 1999 film, noting its continued popularity among younger audiences discovering it for the first time.
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