Heath Ledger has become a hero to the gay community and a father with girlfriend Michelle Williams in the past year. The gay cowboy will be turning in his spurs for green hair dye and lipstick as Heath has been cast to play the Joker in the Batman Begins sequel titled The Dark Knight.

Heath Ledger has indeed signed on to play The Joker in the film.

Speculation has begun on the casting of the movie’s other roles. Phillip Seymour Hoffman has reportedly been offered the role of The Penguin, although it is said to be unlikely that he would accept it. According to BOF, in this film The Penguin will be tranformed into a British arms dealer/mob boss with designs on Gotham.” In the long running comic series, the character has been more of a gentleman villain.

Christian Bale will also be returning to reprise his role as Bruce Wayne / Batman. Bale has expressed interest in making a second film with The Joker storyline in more than a few media interviews.