Australian actor Matt Levett, who is perhaps best known for his recent performance in A Place To Call Home, has been announced the winner of the 2015 Heath Ledger scholarship.
The prize goes to an actor who is well-established in Australia but not yet internationally.
It is designed to give them the support they need to break into Hollywood. Big names, including Hugh Jackman, Nicole Kidman and Naomi Watts, provide support to the prize.
Matt was named winner at a gala event in Hollywood, attended by Australian screen royalty, Jacki Weaver.
Emilie Cocquerel and Lily Sullivan were named the runners up.
Emmy award winning casting director, Laray Mayfield (Fight Club, Gone Girl, House of Cards, The Social Network), who was on the judging panel, said: ‘The decision was not easy as each of the applicants are talented and we are sure they will have long and lovely careers.’
Heath’s mum, Sally Bell, and sister, Kate Ledger, were on hand to congratulate Matt.
Matt described the prize as an ‘incredible gift. Working in this industry, I have realized success here is not something you can do on your own.’
The prize includes $10,000 cash fund, and a two year scholarship at the Stella Adler Academy of Acting and Theatre in Los Angeles. Matt flew to Los Angeles with Virgin Australia to attend the announcement ceremony and will receive a second flight when he is ready to move to the United States, plus a 7 day Californian trip from Visit California, USD$5,000 worth of visa and immigration services from Raynor and Associates and complimentary lifetime membership to StarNow. The scholarship also includes mentorship from professionals in the industry.
Matt graduated from the Western Australia Academy of Performing Arts (WAAPA) in 2009. He’s had a terrific 12 months, scoring a role in the Matchbox Pictures mini-series Devil’s Playground, lead in the critically acclaimed Australian feature Drown, and a part in A Place to Call Home.
Youngsters may also know him from Home and Away.
The judges for the 2015 scholarship included Rose Byrne, Ben Mendelsohn and Vince Vaughn.
Heath’s former partner, Michelle Williams, is a huge supporter of the prize.
Matt Levett with Heath Ledger’s mother and sister.
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