Heath Ledger To Play Joker In 'Batman' Sequel

Batman officially has a new nemesis.

Warner Bros. Pictures announced Monday that Heath Ledger will play The Joker in "The Dark Knight," the sequel to the 2005 blockbuster "Batman Begins."

Christian Bale will reprise his role as Batman/Bruce Wayne in "The Dark Knight."

Ledger was nominated for a Best Actor Oscar earlier this year for the romantic drama "Brokeback Mountain." He has also starred in such films as "The Brothers Grimm," "Monster's Ball," "A Knight's Tale" and "The Patriot."

Also back for "The Dark Knight" is "Batman Begins" director Christopher Nolan.

“Chris' unique vision is what made 'Batman Begins' such an outstanding film and we could not imagine anyone else at the helm of 'The Dark Knight,'” said Jeff Robinov, President of Production for Warner Bros Pictures. “We also can’t wait to see two such formidable actors as Christian and Heath face off with each other as Batman and The Joker."

Christopher Nolan co-wrote the story for "The Dark Knight" with David Goyer, and his brother, Jonathan Nolan, wrote the script.

"Batman Begins" followed Batman/Bruce Wayne's origins and his battles against Ra's Al-Guhl and The Scarecrow. The possible storyline involving The Joker was tipped off at the conclusion of the film.

"I'm excited to continue the story we started with 'Batman Begins,'" said Christopher Nolan. “Our challenge in casting The Joker was to find an actor who is not just extraordinarily talented but fearless. Watching Heath Ledger's interpretation of this iconic character taking on Christian Bale’s Batman is going to be incredible."

Christopher Nolan previously wrote and directed "Memento" and is the co-writer (along with his brother) and director of the upcoming sci-fi drama "The Prestige," starring Hugh Jackman and Bale.

"The Dark Knight" is set to begin production in January 2007.