Jacob Elordi thanks Heath Ledger as Oscar nomination links to Dark Knight inspiration

Jacob Elordi says Heath Ledger inspired his acting dream after receiving Oscar nomination for 'Frankenstein'

Jacob Elordi has credited Heath Ledger for inspiring his acting ambitions after receiving an Oscar nomination for his role as The Creature in Guillermo del Toro’s Frankenstein.

Speaking on Jimmy Kimmel Live following the announcement of the 2026 Academy Awards nominations, the actor reflected on how The Dark Knight star shaped his view of what was possible in Hollywood.

Elordi, known to be a long-time admirer of Christopher Nolan’s film, said the honour held personal meaning because of Ledger.

“You know, strangely you're supposed to say that doesn't mean anything and art is subjective and all these things, but it really was a dream of mine, particularly because of Heath Ledger. He sort of showed me that it was possible,” he told the programme.

The timing of the nomination added further significance. Elordi noted that he was nominated on January 22, exactly 18 years after Ledger died at the age of 28.

“And, a fun fact is actually I remember when I first started my career I was kind of obnoxious and I thought I was like it's not going to happen by 28, and it's going to take much longer. And I'm 28 years old and I got nominated 18 years to the day after he passed. So, I'd like to take this to say thank you to Heath Ledger and for that inspiration. It really, really means the world to me.”

Ledger was nominated posthumously for his performance as the Joker in The Dark Knight on January 22, 2009, a year after his death, and later won the award.

Elordi’s nomination in the same supporting actor category has prompted comparisons between the two careers, with observers noting that both performers earned recognition before turning 30 and through roles requiring major physical transformation.

Elordi is nominated alongside Benecio del Toro, Sean Penn, Delroy Lindo and Stellan Skarsgård. The 98th Oscars are scheduled for March 15, 2026, and will be broadcast on ABC.