The Kodak Theater in Hollywood was still Sunday night as the family of the late Heath Ledger accepted the Best Supporting Actor Oscar for his role in "The Dark Knight."

"This award would've humbly validated Heath's quiet determination to be truly accepted by you all here, his peers, within an industry he so loved," said Kim Ledger, the actor's father. "We would like to thank the Academy for recognizing our son's amazing work, Warner Bros. and [director] Christopher Nolan in particular, for allowing Heath the creative license to develop and explore this crazy Joker character."

Ledger faced some stiff competition in this year's Best Supporting Actor race in a ceremony presented by previous winners in the category.

"Heath Ledger has left us an original and enduring legacy," said Kevin Kline, who announced the actor's nomination during the ceremony.

While some have claimed that Ledger's death more than a year ago fueled his Oscar chances, the fact is that the actor is only the second to win a major category award following his death.

"Heath was such a compassionate and generous soul who added so much excitement and inspiration to our lives," said his mother, Sally Ledger. "We have been truly overwhelmed by the honor and respect being bestowed upon him, and we are choosing to celebrate and be happy for what he has achieved."

Tears could be seen welling in the eyes of many of the actors, writers and producers in the audience as the family accepted the Oscar for Ledger.

"Heath, we both knew that what you had created in the Joker was extraordinarily special," said his sister Kate. "We even talked about being here on this very day. We really wish you were, but we proudly accept this award on behalf of your beautiful Matilda."

"The Dark Knight" did receive other news this weekend. The film reached the $1 billion box office mark, becoming only the fourth film ever to reach that milestone.