Julia Stiles has revealed that she sought Michelle Williams’ approval before dedicating an emotional performance to her late 10 Things I Hate About You co-star Heath Ledger on Dancing with the Stars.
The actress paid tribute to Ledger during the show’s Dedication Night, performing alongside professional dance partner Ezra Sosa to Frankie Valli’s classic hit “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You”. The song holds a special place in the hearts of fans of the 1999 romantic comedy, as Ledger famously performed his own version in one of the film’s most memorable scenes.
Speaking in a recent interview with Extra, Stiles explained that she reached out to Williams, Ledger’s former partner and the mother of his daughter, Matilda, to ask whether she was comfortable with the tribute.
Williams gave her blessing, allowing Stiles to move forward with the heartfelt routine.
The actress admitted that preparing for the performance proved more emotional than she had anticipated. Although she initially believed enough time had passed since the film’s release for her to approach the tribute without becoming overwhelmed, revisiting old clips, photographs and memories brought a wave of nostalgia.
Stiles revealed that she was in tears during the first day of rehearsals, describing the experience as an emotional journey. She also praised Sosa for recognising how deeply the material affected her and adapting their choreography to help her express those feelings through dance.
The performance became an especially moving moment when several of the original film’s cast members joined Stiles onstage following the routine. Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Larisa Oleynik, Gabrielle Union, Susan May Pratt and Andrew Keegan were among those who reunited with their former co-star to honour Ledger’s legacy.
Ledger, who died aged 28 in 2008 from an accidental prescription drug overdose, remains fondly remembered for his performances across film and television. His role as Patrick Verona in 10 Things I Hate About You helped establish him as a rising Hollywood star.
The film, a modern adaptation of William Shakespeare’s The Taming of the Shrew, follows independent-minded Kat Stratford, played by Stiles, and her younger sister Bianca as they navigate romance and high school life.
One of its most iconic scenes features Patrick serenading Kat with “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You” during soccer practice, creating a lasting cinematic moment that continues to resonate with audiences.
Through her Dancing with the Stars performance, Stiles offered a deeply personal tribute to her former co-star, celebrating both their shared memories and the lasting impact of Ledger’s work. The reunion also provided a touching reminder of the enduring friendships formed during the making of the beloved teen classic.
