Julia Stiles paid an emotional tribute to someone who played an unforgettable role in her life and career during a recent appearance on Dancing with the Stars.
The actress, best known for starring alongside Heath Ledger in the 1999 romantic comedy 10 Things I Hate About You, dedicated her latest performance to her late co-star, who died at just 28 years old in 2008.
The touching routine brought memories of their beloved movie back to life, with Stiles visibly emotional as she remembered the actor.
Stiles and her dance partner, Ezra Sosa, performed a contemporary routine to Frankie Valli’s classic song “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You” during Dedication Night in Tuesday’s episode of Season 35.
The song carried special meaning for fans of the 1999 film. One of its most iconic scenes features Ledger’s character, Patrick Verona, serenading Stiles’ character, Kat Stratford, from the school bleachers.
The performance also included a touching reference to another unforgettable moment from the movie.
At the end of the dance, Stiles recited the poem she had originally read to Ledger in the film. Several of their former co-stars joined her for the emotional moment, including Susan May Pratt, Gabrielle Union, Andrew Keegan, Larisa Oleynik, and Joseph Gordon-Levitt.
According to Variety, the judges awarded the pair four nines for their performance.
Julia Stiles Honors Heath Ledger With Dance
Before appearing on stage, Stiles explained the personal meaning behind the performance in a TikTok video.
“We are dancing contemporary to Frankie Valli’s ‘Can’t Take My Eyes Off of You,’ because I’m dedicating this dance to Heath Ledger,” she said.
She also reflected on the special experience of working with Ledger while making 10 Things I Hate About You.
“Making 10 Things I Hate About You with him was such a special moment in time. I learned a lot from Heath… It was so easy with him. I have so many great memories. I really wish I could pick up the phone, and be like, ‘Hey dude.’”
Stiles also expressed how meaningful it was to see that audiences still care so deeply about the film, while acknowledging the sadness of not being able to celebrate its legacy with Ledger.
“It’s amazing that people still care about that movie, and it’s just sad that we can’t celebrate it with him.”
Ezra Sosa’s Heartfelt Message About the Tribute
Stiles’ dance partner, Ezra Sosa, also shared his thoughts about the performance in an emotional Instagram tribute.
“I don’t think we’ve ever approached a performance with more care, sensitivity, and intention than this one.”
He explained that both he and Stiles wanted to ensure the tribute was created with respect for Ledger and the people closest to him.
“From the very beginning, it was incredibly important to both Julia and I that this tribute be created with the utmost respect, thoughtfulness, and close guidance from those who hold Heath and his memory closest.”
Sosa emphasized that the performance was not intended to tell a story that did not belong to them.
He explained that the tribute “isn’t about defining a relationship or telling a story that isn’t ours to tell.”
Instead, he said it was about celebrating a special moment in film history and remembering someone whose influence continues to reach new generations.
“It’s about honoring a beautiful moment in time, a film that changed so many lives, and someone whose impact continues to be felt by generations.”
He added that they had put tremendous love into the performance and were grateful for the trust they had received in bringing the tribute to life.
“Our only hope is that it honors his memory with the dignity, love, and respect it deserves.”
Heath Ledger died in 2008 following an accidental overdose. He was only 28 years old.
He was survived by his daughter, Matilda, whom he shared with his former partner, actress Michelle Williams.
More than a decade after his passing, Ledger remains fondly remembered for his remarkable performances, including his unforgettable role alongside Julia Stiles in 10 Things I Hate About You.
