Heath Ledger’s iconic role as Patrick Verona in the 1999 teen classic “10 Things I Hate About You” was secured even before he uttered a word, according to the film’s director Gil Junger. In a recent conversation with Entertainment Weekly, Junger reflected on how he discovered Ledger, who was an unknown at the time but displayed an undeniable charisma that set him apart during auditions.
Junger mentioned that he had gone through an exhausting audition process, seeing 253 actors, when Ledger walked into the room. He recounted how, after just a few steps, he thought, “If this f—er can read English, I’m going to cast him.” This initial impression was based on intense magnetism and confidence, which Junger believed made Ledger the perfect fit for the romantic lead.
In the film, Ledger portrayed a charming and enigmatic senior at Padua High, who is manipulated into dating the strong-willed Kat, played by Julia Stiles. His performance, filled with moments of poetry recitation, paintball antics, and a memorable serenade, became a breakout moment for Ledger, who would later star in renowned films such as “A Knight’s Tale,” “Brokeback Mountain,” and “The Dark Knight,” for which he received a posthumous Oscar.
Junger has also shared his fond memories of working alongside Ledger, stating that they enjoyed each other’s company so much that he arranged for his driver to pick Ledger up first for their daily commutes to the set. He reminisced about Ledger’s unique style on set, recalling the actor’s 1970s Frye boots and eclectic clothing, which showcased Ledger’s effortless coolness.
Looking ahead, Junger aims to honor the legacy of “10 Things I Hate About You” with a new project titled “10 Things I Hate About Dating.” This film seeks to tell a fresh love story that captures the same blend of humor and heart as the original, though Junger has chosen not to pursue a direct sequel out of respect for Ledger’s memory.
The appreciation for Ledger’s talent continues to resonate, celebrating the remarkable impact he had on audiences and the entertainment industry, even from a young age. This retrospective on Ledger’s casting underscores the special qualities he brought to his performances, leaving fans full of nostalgia and anticipation for the new film.