United Kingdom, May 20 -- Michelle Williams has paid tribute to her former partner Heath Ledger as "so special".

The 44-year-old actress had 19-year-old daughter Matilda Ledger, now 19, with Heath before he died in January 2008 aged 28 from an accidental overdose as a result of prescription drug abuse months after the couple had separated.

She has now spoken candidly about the actor and her approach to motherhood during an appearance on the 'Armchair Expert' with Dax Shepard podcast, saying about his legacy: "(He was) so special, so special. Thank God there's Matilda."

Michelle also became emotional as Dax, 49, recalled his own connection to 'Brokeback Mountain' star Heath.

He said: "I feel obligated to say that I knew him a little bi...