HEATH Ledger's devastated family say the beloved actor was an inspiration and that his sudden death was accidental.

HEATH Ledger's devastated family say the beloved actor was an inspiration and that his sudden death was accidental.

Ledger, 28, was found naked and unconscious in his bedroom surrounded by sleeping pills today in his New York apartment, police have confirmed.

Heartbroken father Kim Ledger, mother Sally Ledger-Bell and sister Katie Ledger have gathered in Perth to mourn the shock loss, and have thanked fans and fellow actors for their support.

"We, Heath's family, confirm the very tragic, untimely and accidental passing of our dearly loved son, brother and doting father of Matilda, who was found in a peaceful sleep in his New York apartment by his housekeeper.

"We would like to thank our friends and everyone around the world for their kind wishes at this time. Heath has touched so many people on so many different levels during his short life, but few had the pleasure to truly know him.

"He was a down-to-earth, generous, kind-hearted, life-loving and unselfish individual who was an inspiration to many. Please now respect our family's need to grieve and come to terms with our loss privately."

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