Bale avoided news reports after Ledger's death

Christian Bale refused to watch the news after his 'The Dark Knight' co-star Heath Ledger died - fearing gossipy coverage would tarnish his memories of his friend.

Bale was left stunned after Ledger, who played the villainous Joker to his Batman in the 2008 blockbuster, died from an accidental prescription drug overdose in January 2008.