Michelle Williams recently opened up about her late ex-partner Heath Ledger, calling him “so special” during a heartfelt conversation on Dax Shepard’s Armchair Expert podcast.
The 44-year-old actress reflected on the impact of having their daughter, Matilda, now 19, and how Heath’s legacy continues to shape her life years after his tragic death in 2008.
Michelle and Heath met while filming Ang Lee’s acclaimed Brokeback Mountain in 2004. Their relationship blossomed during the film’s promotion, and by October 2005, the couple welcomed their daughter Matilda. Sadly, the couple separated before Heath’s untimely death in January 2008 from an accidental overdose linked to prescription drug use. He was only 28.
During the podcast, Michelle spoke candidly about her experience becoming a mother so young. She noted that being young meant she didn’t have enough life experience to fully process everything, so she “just went with the flow.” But through it all, Matilda has been a bright spot. “Thank God there’s Matilda,” Michelle said emotionally, emphasizing how much their daughter means to her and keeps Heath’s memory alive.
Dax Shepard, who conducted the interview, also shared his personal connection to Heath Ledger. He revealed that he met Heath during his attempts to get sober and described him as “one of the most special boys I’ve ever met.” Shepard expressed how quickly he fell in love with Heath’s spirit and how deeply saddened he was by Heath’s struggles and eventual passing.
Michelle also opened up about the challenges of balancing parenthood with her career. Now with three additional children with her partner, director Thomas Kail, she explained how having kids forces you to “put your best self in front of them.” She talked about how parenting requires constant juggling, sometimes focusing on family, other times returning to personal goals and work, but always striving not to neglect either for too long.
This raw and honest tribute from Michelle Williams goes beyond the Hollywood headlines. It’s a real look at love, loss, and motherhood, showing how the bond between her and Heath Ledger lives on through their daughter Matilda. Even after all these years, Heath remains “so special” in her heart.
