On a touching night of Dancing With the Stars, Julia Stiles brought back memories of the cult classic ’10 Things I Hate About You,’ delivering a moving dance tribute to Heath Ledger that celebrated their unforgettable film and legacy.
- Stiles recreated the famous dance to Frankie Valli’s classic song from the film.
- The original cast reunited onstage to support the tribute.
- The heartfelt ending featured a rose tribute and a memorable poem from the movie.
What happened
Julia Stiles performed a contemporary dance inspired by her 1999 movie ’10 Things I Hate About You’ on last night’s Dancing With the Stars. Her partner, Ezra Sosa, joined her in recreating the film’s iconic scene where Heath Ledger’s character serenades Stiles’ character at the school stadium. The routine was set to Frankie Valli’s song “Can’t Keep My Eyes Off You,” the same music that became a signature moment in the movie.
Toward the end of the performance, Stiles paid a deeply emotional tribute to Ledger by leaving a rose onstage in front of a screen showing a treasured photo of them from the film. The dance was further made memorable when Stiles was joined by original cast members Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Gabrielle Union, and others, standing together to honor their late co-star and the special impact ’10 Things I Hate About You’ has on fans.
Why it feels good
The performance tapped into a strong sense of nostalgia and heartfelt remembrance for the beloved movie and Heath Ledger, who passed away too soon. Julia Stiles shared personal reflections on the authenticity and kindness she learned from Ledger, expressing both joy and sadness about their shared history. This connection resonated deeply with fans who grew up loving the film and continue to cherish its legacy.
Bringing the original cast back together created a warm, supportive atmosphere that elevated the tribute from a dance routine to a collective celebration of friendship, artistry, and memory. The blend of music, choreography, and the iconic poem recited by Stiles at the end made the performance a resonant tribute to enduring connections beyond the screen.
What to enjoy or watch next
Fans of ’10 Things I Hate About You’ can revisit the movie to relive the moments that inspired Stiles’ stunning routine, experiencing the charm and wit that have made it a lasting favorite. Watching the film again can deepen appreciation for the nostalgia of this special DWTS tribute and the unique dynamic between Stiles and Ledger.
Following Julia Stiles’ performances on DWTS this season, including her previous ’Save the Last Dance’ routine, viewers might also enjoy tuning in weekly to witness how she continues to blend her artistic talents with meaningful storytelling. For those moved by this tribute, exploring other heartfelt dance performances on DWTS offers a wonderful way to celebrate iconic film moments brought to life onstage.