In 1999, 19 year old Heath Ledger was just on the verge of a burgeoning acting career. Like most young actors he had to pay his dues and success did not come easy. Up until 1999 his acting career consisted of brief roles in low-budget films and appearances in quickly axed television shows. This would have discouraged most, but the persistent Ledger knew he was on the precipice of stardom.

Like most young actors, Heath was introduced to acting through drama class, while attending school in his native Perth, Australia. His talent was apparent from the start, but Heath struggled for a few years. In 1999, the ambitious young actor even traveled to Hollywood to audition for American roles, but with no success. However, he met Australian director Gregor Jordan, who auditioned him for the lead role in the Aussie crime film Two Hands. Heath landed the role that would change his young life forever.

Two Hands was a dynamic film and a huge success. Hunky young Heath turned in a powerful and engaging performance, which catapulted his career seemingly overnight. His terrific performance in Two Hands helped Heath secure his first American role, in the popular teen movie 10 Things I Hate About You.

Ledger eagerly embraced the challenge and delivered another stellar performance. In fact, he stole the stage (and the hearts of millions of young girls). Over the course of one year Heath Ledger went from struggling actor to world famous teen heart throb. However, he didn’t like being typecasted as the latest teen sex symbol and struggled with it the rest of is career.

Ledger’s story is inspiring in so many ways. Within the span of one year, he went from being just another 19 year old struggling actor to a Hollywood star. A great movie like Two Hands and an epic performance was all Heath needed.What’s 1 more click? Your boss isn’t watching… Michelle Williams says Heath Ledger’s death affects every part of her life