It has been more than two decades since 10 Things I Hate About You hit cinemas, but Julia Stiles just proved the beloved romantic comedy still has a massive hold on our hearts. During Dedication Week on Dancing With The Stars, the actress delivered a deeply moving tribute to her late co-star, Heath Ledger, that left audiences sobbing.
A Nostalgic Routine
Teaming up with her dance partner Ezra Sosa, Stiles performed a contemporary routine set to “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You” the exact song Ledger’s character famously serenaded her with in the 1999 film. Fans were quick to notice the thoughtful details, from Stiles wearing a blue dress reminiscent of her character’s prom outfit, to the audio snippet of her iconic poem playing across the ballroom.
Before taking the floor, Stiles shared fond memories of the Australian actor, who tragically died in 2008 at age 28. “It was so easy with him,” she recalled in a prerecorded video. “I really wish I could pick up the phone, and be like, ‘Hey dude’.”
The Ultimate Cast Reunion
Just when viewers thought the performance could not get any more emotional, Stiles was joined on stage by her former castmates. Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Gabrielle Union, Larisa Oleynik, Andrew Keegan, and Susan May Pratt all linked arms with Stiles as the crowd erupted in applause.
The touching routine earned her an impressive 36 out of 40 from the judges. Meanwhile, social media was flooded with emotional fans declaring the performance “exquisite” and “thoughtful”. It was a perfect nod to a classic film and a brilliant actor who is still deeply missed today.
