Heath Ledger was one of the most charismatic actors of his generation. After establishing a high-profile Hollywood career at the age of 21 with the lead inA Knight's Tale, Ledger pursued a series of increasingly diverse, often subversive roles that belied his image as a teen idol. Edgier films such asMonster's Ball gave tantalizing hints of his talent, but it wasn't untilBrokeback Mountain that he proved beyond question the full extent of his abilities. His sudden death rocked the film industry and threw a poignant shadow over the body of work that has now become his legacy. Here, Brian J. Robb explores Ledger's relationships with actresses Michelle Williams, Naomi Watts, and Heather Graham, recounts the making ofBrokeback Mountain and the film's impact, and charts Ledger's increasingly troubled state of mind.Heath Ledger: Hollywood's Dark Star paints a memorable portrait of a compelling and intense young man whose loss will be felt for years to come.