Jake Gyllenhaal Hit 'Harder Than Most' By Heath's Death

By Access HollywoodJanuary 30, 2008, 8:38 am PST

While Heath Ledger's death has sent shockwaves through Hollywood, it's reportedly been especially tough on those closest to Heath, including his good friend and "Brokeback Mountain" co-star, Jake Gyllenhaal.

"Jake is taking this harder than most people," a source close to Gyllenhaal told People.

[ Jake Gyllenhaal Talks 'Rendition' - Watch the Video ]

Jake, who is godfather to Heath and Michelle Williams' two-year-old daughter, Matilda, has been understandably devastated by the tragic news. And his grief is reportedly nowhere more evident than on the set of his new film "Brothers," currently filming in New Mexico.

"This has had a strong personal effect on [Jake]," a source on the set told People.

[ Scenes From 'Rendition' - View the Gallery ]

Upon hearing the news, Jake reportedly immediately left the "Brothers" set, however, returned later in the week to shoot an additional scene.

"He was there, but he wasn't with us. It was obviously a major trauma. These guys were very close," People's source added. "[Jake] was sitting in the director's chair staring off into space."

[ More about Jake Gyllenhaal ]

Gyllenhaal has not returned to the set since finishing his scene, and director Jim Sheridan is reportedly shooting around Jake's scenes during his time off, according to People.

The actor's solemn demeanor on the set is a far cry from earlier and happier times on the "Brothers" set.

[ Access Archives: Jake Gyllenhaal - Watch the Video ]

According to People, during an early prison scene, Gyllenhaal jokingly reached into his pocket and pulled out a photo of his "Brokeback" co-star to stick to the cell wall.

"Like those prisoners put [loved ones] on the wall, but Jake's was Heath Ledger. That was hilarious. It was a nice moment," a source from the set told People. "When you think back on it now, it's touching."

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comments 1-10 of 96  | newest | < newer | older > | oldest
  • mytwodinarii
    Jake lost a good friend; not easy for anyone. My condolences to him. I hope the Ledger family finds a little peace in all this. It's bad enough for them to deal with Heath's death, much less to have the media in their faces asking them inane questions like "How do you feel in all this?"
    report abuseposted February 5, 2008, 8:53 pm PST
  • Lady Jessyka
    I can't even imagine the pain that Jake or Heath's family is going through. I simple refuse to believe that he commited sucide but Hollywood is getting pretty screwed up these days. My prayers go out to everyone.
    report abuseposted February 4, 2008, 11:49 am PST
  • jenni g
    The Ledger family, Michelle, Matilda, Jake, I wish i had the power to return your friend to you. I know he loved you and its so important that you keep his legacy going as best you can. I recently lost my mother and it will be hard, but there are alot of people who are praying that God bring peace to you and i will keep you in my prayers just as much of the world is doing. We miss you Heath
    report abuseposted February 3, 2008, 7:11 pm PST
  • LadyO
    My deepest sympathy for Heath's family and for Jake and his family. The loss of a loved one, family member or dearest friend, is so profound and painful. Keep the faith, pray for Heath's soul, and ask the Lord to grant you never-ending strength to keep you going day to day w/o Heath. Heath is in a better place, free from physical and emotional pain. R.I.P We will miss you and you
    report abuseposted January 31, 2008, 4:29 pm PST
  • Jenna
    Omg its so sad! i feel so bad for his family and hes hott...JUST SAYIN
    report abuseposted January 31, 2008, 4:26 pm PST
  • Nathiest
    I got nothing to funny or smartass to say here. :(
    report abuseposted January 31, 2008, 4:02 pm PST
  • tina p
    i know how his family feels o ilost 2 of my brothers a couple of years ago it sucks my heart goes out to his family and too his daughter god bless the family
    report abuseposted January 31, 2008, 2:21 pm PST
  • angeldevilallinone
    There's nothing worse than watching a pure talent die from an early "departure." Heath was truly gifted, and will be sorely missed. I can only imagine how sad Jake must be, as these two shared major and intense emotional scenes together. This is such a horrible trsgedy, and my heart goes out to those who were fortunate to be touched by his presence.
    report abuseposted January 31, 2008, 2:19 pm PST
  • princess
    I know exactly how Jake feels, I've lost a very close friend of mine. You never get over it, it does get better though.
    report abuseposted January 31, 2008, 1:26 pm PST
  • Dee A.
    We all love and support you Jake! I'm so sorry you have to go through this! Rest in Peace Heath!
    report abuseposted January 31, 2008, 1:00 pm PST
comments 1-10 of 96  | newest | < newer | older > | oldest

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