Heath Barred

This morning I heard an NPR reporter mention in a reverent tone that The Dark Knight features Heath Ledger in his last acting role. To that I say, “Big deal!” I resent feeling like an idiot for not knowing who Heath Ledger was before he died.

In order to cope with this resentment in a mature manner, I will dis’ readers who would lionize the man. But first …

• I admit The Dark Knight sounds pretty cool. I’ll probably see it (although not necessarily on the big screen).
• I know it’s common courtesy when speaking in public about a dead person to employ a reverent tone. This goes double if said dead person was relatively young, like say 29 — and goes triple if the deceased shared a birthday with my son #1.
• I admit to often being out of it when it comes to certain aspects of popular culture. For example, I doubt I could name more than 20 recording artists who have achieved substantial commercial success post-1989. Steely Dan doesn’t count.
• I know the authorities established it’s not Ledger’s fault his acting career was abruptly shortened.
• I know he was nominated for an Oscar for his role as Ennis Del Mar in the Oscar winner for best picture of 2005, Brokeback Mountain.
• I know, ladies, that he is — er, was — a hunk and his trademark was his deep voice.

But c’mon, Heath freakin’ Ledger? Give me a break!