Revisiting one of her most memorable films brought Julia Stiles to tears as she honored her late co-star and friend, Heath Ledger, on Dancing With the Stars. During Dedication Night, Stiles and her professional dance partner, Ezra Sosa, performed a powerful contemporary routine to Frankie Valli’s 1967 classic “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You.” The dance celebrated Ledger’s lasting legacy in their 1999 romantic comedy, 10 Things I Hate About You.
Ledger’s performance of the song remains one of the defining moments of late-90s cinema. In the beloved film, his character, Patrick Verona, serenades Stiles’ character, Kat Stratford, from the bleachers of their high school stadium with the help of the school’s marching band. Ledger tragically died in January 2008 at the age of 28 from an accidental prescription drug overdose.
Ahead of the live broadcast, Stiles admitted that looking back at archival footage, photographs, and scripts from the movie affected her far more deeply than she anticipated. Speaking with reporters and in pre-recorded intro packages, the actress held back tears as she reflected on their time together on set.
Channeling Authenticity and Joy on the Ballroom Floor
“I learned a lot from Heath. He was so authentic,” Stiles recalled during her intro package. “I see pictures from that time and I’m like, ‘Wow.’ It was so easy with him.”
She added, “I have so many great memories, but I’m also sad because I really wish that I could pick up the phone and be like, ‘Hey dude, people really care about that movie. We did something special.’ And I can’t do that.”
To capture Ledger’s vibrant spirit, Stiles and Sosa crafted a routine blending a respectful acknowledgment of his passing with an exuberant celebration of his life. Stiles wore a blue dress reminiscent of the one her character wore to the prom in the movie. When the routine concluded, the stage welcomed a surprise appearance from several of her former 10 Things I Hate About You co-stars, including Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Gabrielle Union, while Kat’s famous poetic monologue played overhead.
The judges rewarded the deeply personal performance with a 36 out of 40, marking Stiles’ highest score of the season so far.
A Shared Vision of Respect and Care
Before taking to the ballroom floor, Stiles and Sosa shared a joint statement via Instagram emphasizing that the tribute was constructed with immense care, sensitivity, and close guidance from those who knew Ledger best.
“This isn’t about defining a relationship or telling a story that isn’t ours to tell,” the pair wrote. “It’s about honoring a beautiful moment in time, a film that changed so many lives, and someone whose impact continues to be felt by generations.”
Stiles has frequently spoken candidly about her connection to Ledger over the years, describing him as a “bright light” who walked into a room and instantly illuminated it. Remembering her time as a young actress stepping into her first major studio leading role, she credited Ledger’s kindness and generosity with making her feel entirely comfortable on set.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Julia Stiles perform her Heath Ledger tribute on Dancing With the Stars?
Julia Stiles performed her dedicated contemporary routine on October 20, 2026, during Dedication Night for season 35 of Dancing With the Stars.
Who was Julia Stiles’ dancing partner on the show?
Stiles is partnered with professional ballroom dancer Ezra Sosa.
What song did they dance to?
They performed a contemporary routine to Frankie Valli’s 1967 hit “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You,” echoing the iconic movie scene where Heath Ledger serenades Stiles.
What score did Julia Stiles receive for the tribute dance?
The judges awarded Stiles and Sosa a score of 36 out of 40, which was her highest score of the season.
Which former co-stars appeared at the end of the routine?
Stiles was joined on stage by her former 10 Things I Hate About You castmates Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Gabrielle Union.
