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Family Thrilled by Heath Oscar Nod

Still-grieving kin celebrate Joker nomination

By Rob Quinn, Newser Staff

Posted Jan 23, 2009 4:36 AM CST

(Newser) – Heath Ledger's three sisters are still struggling with the loss of their brother, but they are grateful for the legacy he left behind, they tell the Sydney Morning Herald. His death a year ago "seems like nearly yesterday, and we are all nursing broken hearts," said sis Kate, speaking on the same beach where Ledger's wake was held. But Ledger's Oscar nomination yesterday is cause for joy rather than sorrow, she added.

"Although we would love to have him here with us, we are so proud and so excited on his behalf," said younger sister Olivia. "In Heath's words, he had 'the time of his life' portraying the Joker and said that it was the most fun he ever had making a film."

[Images (4)]

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Heath Ledger arrives for the premiere of his film "Candy" in New York in 2006. (AP Photo/Dima Gavrysh )

Director Christopher Nolan accepts the best supporting actor award granted to Heath Ledger for his role in "The Dark Knight" at the 14th Annual Critics' Choice Awards earlier this month. (AP Photo/Chris Pizzello)

Michelle Williams, Kate Ledger, and other family and friends attend Heath Ledger memorial on Cottesloe Beach last February in Perth, Australia. (Getty Images)

Heath Ledger stars as the Joker in a scene from "The Dark Knight." (AP Photo/Warner Bros. Pictures, Stephen Vaughan)

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Co-stars discuss Ledger's Oscar-worthy performance ahead of Dark Knight's release. (ReelzChannel)

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Family Thrilled by Heath Oscar Nod