Heath Ledger was found dead Tuesday at his Manhattan apartment, according to CNN.  While no cause of death has yet been determined, the presence of sleeping pills in the apartment where he was found has led already to rumors and speculation that he died of a drug overdose.  He was 28.

Fans everywhere knew Ledger.  His first role in America, as Patrick Verona in Shakespeare-update "10 Things I Hate About You," launched his career, and followup roles in Roar and "A Knight's Tale" made him famous to fans.  His role as Ennis in "Brokeback Mountain" secured his status as both a serious actor and a household name.  Later this year, audiences will see him as the Joker, Batman's greatest nemesis in "The Dark Knight."

Ledger is survived by his daughter Matilda, his parents Sally and Kim, and three sisters.