Heath Ledger documentary to air May 17 on Spike

April 5 (UPI) -- Spike TV says it plans to air the documentary I Am Heath Ledger on May 17, following its world premiere at New York's Tribeca Film Festival on April 23.

  The 90-minute documentary from director-producer Derik Murray also will receive a limited, theatrical, nationwide release on May 3 via Fathom Events. 

"I Am Heath Ledger provides an intimate look at Heath through the lens of his own camera, with a treasure trove of never-before-seen footage, as he films and often performs in his own personal journey -- extravagant in gesture and in action," a press release said. "Through these personal home movies, we get a rare glimpse into his true character -- demonstrating his creative energy and unshakable willingness to take risks that instilled such an extraordinarily deep love and affection in the people that entered his life."

The Australian actor starred in the films Brokeback Mountain, A Knight's Tale, Monster's Ball, The Patriot and 10 Things I Hate About You before he died in 2008 of cardiac arrest brought on by prescription drug intoxication.

Ledger was 28 at the time of his death. The actor was awarded a posthumous Oscar for his portrayal of the Joker in The Dark Knight and he is survived by his 11-year-old daughter with his ex-girlfriend, actress Michelle Williams.