A passing

I am not given to following the doings and mishaps of celebrities. Nonetheless, I was so impressed with the acting of Mr. Leger in Brokeback Mountain that I viewed him as someone developing into a superb performer. I thus note this with sorrow:

Actor Heath Ledger is found dead
38 minutes ago
NEW YORK (AFP) — Australian-born actor Heath Ledger, 28, the co-star of the Oscar-winning movie "Brokeback Mountain," was found dead in his New York residence on Tuesday, police said.
...
The newspaper quoted officials as saying pills were found near the body, but gave no further details.

AP notes this:

The Australian-born actor was nominated for an Oscar for "Brokeback Mountain," where he met his wife, actress Michelle Williams, in 2005. Ledger and Williams had lived in Brooklyn and had a daughter, Matilda, until they split up last year.

For his daughter and all who love him, peace and consolation.

For all who die early in the maelstrom of fame and drugs, Lord, have mercy.

For those who die unnoticed, unrecognized, unmourned, Lord, have mercy.

IN PACE REQUIESCANT

--the BB