Christian Bale Crying: MTV Movie Awards Provide Somber Moment For Batman Star

What Made Christian Bale Emotional At The MTV Movie Awards?

Christian Bale is known for his onscreen stoicism, but during the MTV Movie Awards on Sunday night, the actor got unexpectedly emotional while watching clips of Heath Ledger.

Bale -- on stage with his "Dark Knight Rises" co-stars Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Gary Oldman -- introduced a video package highlighting both "Batman Begins" and its blockbuster sequel, "The Dark Knight." When the montage ended, Bale was noticeably choked up.

"Man, great to remember Heath in that moment," he said, holding back tears. "Wonderful to see Heath Ledger there."

Ledger famously played The Joker in "Dark Knight," and won a posthumous Academy Award for his efforts. Ledger died on Jan. 22, 2008 after an accidental overdose of prescription drugs.

Following Bale's unscripted bit of empathetic humanity, the actor gave way to Gordon-Levitt, who brought director Christopher Nolan out to the stage. Nolan, ever modest, debuted a new trailer for "The Dark Knight Rises" while stating that he hoped fans would enjoy his Batman finale.

Watch Bale's emotional scene above. Check out the new "Dark Knight Rises" footage by clicking here.

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