Settlement reached on Ledger's insurance

Insurers and lawyers acting for Heath Ledger's daughter have reportedly reached an out-of-court settlement over a $10 million (£7 million) claim.

Reuters reports that ReliaStar Life Insurance Co. wanted to investigate the actor's death further before paying out to three-year-old Matilda Rose.

Ledger, 28, died a year ago in his New York apartment from an accidental overdose of prescription drugs.

Attorney William Shernoff, who was acting for the child, said: "The parties are pleased that they were able to reach an amicable settlement and solve the dispute."

No details were released on terms of the agreement.

Filmmaker Terry Gilliam recently hailed Ledger as the best actor of his generation, while his family have said that they are "proud and excited" that he has been given an Oscar nod for his role as the Joker in The Dark Knight.