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Heath Ledger’s performance as The Joker in the latest Batman film was inspired by Sid Vicious, according to his co-star Christian Bale.

Chistian Bale said: He (Ledger) modelled the part on Sid Vicious which made this punk-like character. I think it is a classic portrayal of a great villain Photo: AP/PA

Bale, who plays the protagonist in the hit movie, said Ledger, who died in January of an accidental drugs overdose, had watched video clips of the late Sex Pistols guitar player while researching the role.

The 34-year-old said: “Heath’s created an anarchic Joker unlike any ever seen before.

“He modelled the part on Sid Vicious which made this punk-like character. I think it is a classic portrayal of a great villain.”

The punk rocker, whose real name was John Simon Ritchie, died in New York 1979, also from a drugs overdose.

The troubled musician - renowned for his violent behaviour - was facing trial over the murder of his former girlfriend Nancy Spungen at the time of his death.

Ledger is being tipped to win an Oscar for his role in The Dark Knight.

Bale added: “Heath immersed himself in the role. I would love to see him get an award.”

Before his death, Ledger said he also drew inspiration from A Clockwork Orange for the role.

“It’s the most fun I’ve had with a character and probably will ever have…” he said.

The actor added: “It was an exhausting process. At the end of the day I couldn’t move. I couldn’t talk. I was absolutely wrecked.”

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