Jake Gyllenhaal Hit ‘Harder Than Most’ By Heath’s Death

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, 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.

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.”

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.

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.”