We focus on an interesting and somewhat controversial figure for the Out Spotlight today. Transsexual pioneer Renee Richards, born Richard Raskind, Richards was a gifted tennis player and played on the professional tour. Richards went to medical school and became an eye surgeon, specializing in strabismus (crossed eyes). Long a cross dresser, Richards considered sexual reassignment surgery in the 1960s but opted out, married and fathered a son. In 1975, Richards had her surgery and began pursuing a tennis career as a woman.
Richards was barred from the US Open by the USTA, citing a previously unheard of women-born-women policy. Richards took the case to the NY Supreme Court and won. It was a landmark decision for transsexual rights.
Richards played tennis as a woman for 4 years and was ranked as high as 20th. Richards had some success at the US Open, reaching the doubles final in 1977 and also won the 35 and over singles title in 1979. Richards twice was a mixed doubles semi-finalist at the US Open with partner Ilie Nastase.
Richards expressed regrets over her reassignment surgery in later years, saying she felt like a second class woman. She also felt that she should not have had the surgery so late in life, after having already lived a significant portion of her life as a man.
"It's not something for somebody in their 40s to do, someone who's had a life as a man, - - - If you're 18 or 20 and never had the kind of (advantages) I had, and you're oriented in that direction, sure, go ahead and make right what nature didn't. But if you're a 45-year-old man and you're an airline pilot and you have an ex-wife and three adolescent kids, you better get on Thorazine or Zoloft or Prozac or get locked up or do whatever it takes to keep you from being allowed to do something like this.''
- Renée Richards, Associated Press, February 1999.
"She calls the 2004 decision of the International Olympic Committee, which allows transsexuals to compete, “a particularly stupid decision" . . . "Better to be an intact man functioning with 100 percent capacity for everything than to be a transsexual woman who is an imperfect woman.”"
- Renée Richards, as quoted in The Lady Regrets
http://www.nytimes.com/2007/02/01/garden/01renee.html?_r=2&oref=slogin&oref=slogin,
New York Times, February 1, 2007
Richards in 1975.
Richards in 2007.
Sunday, January 27, 2008
Out Spotlight X
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143 comments:
Ann, what I find interesting about all of you Gyllenbabbles is that you criticize Ted for his sources while you are all willing to believe anonymous bloggers when it supports your beliefs.
Good morning!
What an interesting Spotlight. I wonder if doctors today would accept to perform a sex change on a person with the background of Renée Richards'. Please understand I'm no specialist but each time I read stories about people who had undergone that type of surgery, the patient had been required to go and clear through extensive tests, both physical and psychological, an extremely thorough and stringent process that ultimately leaves many hopeful candidates out. And the happy chosen end up much happier than they were before, despite being exposed to prejudices, since they really felt trapped in their previous body.
On another note, I've decided to call our new furry couples KCat & Attink. I knew Tink wouldn't play second fiddle to Twicked for long. ;) :)
Heath's final portrait. It's very haunting and disturbing: http://community.livejournal.com/ohnotheydidnt/?skip=20
Thanks for the link BWF.
I know bringing back messages from other blogs & forums is frowned upon but I thought my little misbehaving would be forgiven as Mary Oliver has been featured in one of our Out Spotlight and this very touching poem bears reposting. Thanks to Whiplash from DC who posted it on the Farewell to Heath.
Heavy
By Mary Oliver
That time
I thought I could not
go any closer to grief
without dying
I went closer,
and I did not die.
Surely God
had His hand in this,
as well as friends.
Still, I was bent,
and my laughter,
as the poet said,
was nowhere to be found.
Then said my friend Daniel
(brave even among lions),
"It's not the weight you carry
but how you carry it -
books, bricks, grief -
it's all in the way
you embrace it, balance it, carry it
when you cannot, and would not,
put it down."
So I went practicing.
Have you noticed?
Have you heard
the laughter
that comes, now and again,
out of my startled mouth?
How I linger
to admire, admire, admire
the things of this world
that are kind, and maybe
also troubled -
roses in the wind,
the sea geese on the steep waves,
a love
to which there is no reply?
Great post today - interesting to read Renee's honest thoughts about her revolutionary path in life. She's a trailblazer, it's nice to remember GLBT history and those who helped pave the way before us, although there's still much to be done. I love history, and GLBT history, art and literature is something to be very proud of indeed. These people are amazing, those who persist in being who they are despite overwhelming social pressures against them. I can't imagine the pressure Renee Richards was up against when she decided to do this, and still she had the strength to be who she is, and not only that, to honestly discuss the difficulties her choice presented her, and any regret she may have had.
Sylvester James, yesterday's musical artist as well, who paved the way for those to follow him, like RuPaul.
And perfect song to go with today's Out Spotlight, the beautiful voice and words of Antony Johnson.
I went with a friend to Soho last night and we left flowers and candles for Heath. She bought the flowers and we shared them as I was not coming from home. They were blue roses--they were really beatiful, and I was glad she chose something that was a bit unusual.
I wrote the following note on the paper around the flowers: "Thank you for having the courage to play Ennis and for your beautiful performance. We will always remember you and hold you close in our hearts." I signed it "OMG".
On the candle I left I wrote "may your soul find peace and love" and again signed it OMG.
It was very beautiful and touching to see all of the flowers and candles burning in the dark. People had also put up some signs and pictures of Heath. I had a good cry and said goodbye for all of us while my friend wrapped her arm around me.
Thank you Destiny. We'll miss Heath very much. :'(
Just a little PSA from me:
Austin Media has been updated with a little treat for those of you who are members!
I thought we all could use a little cheering up. :)
Jake, reese, the kids and their dogs in L.A. yesterday:
http://x17online.com/celebrities/jake_gyllenhaal/jake_emerges_after_heaths_death-01272008.php#more
(((Destiny))) Thank you honey. :* :* :*
I'm all done. :(
Jake looks MISERABLE as all hell...that is sooo sad.
Still not too worried about him being out with Reese though cuz I could care less...and he was bound to go out with her again eventually, meh.
...and he was bound to go out with her again eventually, meh.
ITA. But the timing just makes me wanna... :(
I agree Canadian.
Jake is totally desponded. Talk about not wanting to do something. Some may say they are done but I think in a way this is when he needs support even more.
Clearly he is not only upset about losing his friend, but he just radiates how much he does not want to be a part of this.
I have never seen him so removed and disengaged from everyone and everything.
Completely covered up up, cloaked as it were. Dropping back and away not interacting at all.
While these pictures may anger some this just pulls at my heart.
I think I'm gonna wait a couple of days before commenting on Reeke again. Right now I'm still caught in the emotional turmoil caused by Heath's death.
Well, at least they're not skipping and laughing or whatever. Jake looks deeply despondent.
If Jake didn't want to be part of this, then he should have stayed home. I don't see a gun to his head to go out hiking with reese, her kids and their dogs.
BTW, did he manage to attend the memorial service last night for Heath after his family outing? Just asking because the silence on this is disturbing.
And as far as looking despondent, I've seen
him look worse, go check IHJ.
I believe the Jake/reese sightings from last week and I also believe
that he wasn't on set in NM. either.
I guess he thinks this pictures will work: Oh look he is so unhappy and Reese is there to comfort him".
These are the pics he wants out, not the smiling at the dogs pics.
^ 1:28 is Jack troll getting in quick.
No Anon comments
They are getting a little better at this, sad faces, looking down, etc.
Glad to see his GF and her kids are there for his time of grieving.
Wonder if they will make it to tonights SAG tribute, sad faces and all.
The excuses you kep comng up with to explain Jake are getting more ridiculous.
Stopped in at gyllenbabble since she had a tribute to Heath up the last few days. Someone makes reference to a "missive" they received from the gyllenhaal family in the comments. Curious, since in 2 yrs of trying jakewatch could not get the time of day from them. Close to management, eh?
Wise decision, Frenchy, me too. I have no room in my heart right now for anyone but Heath, his family and friends, and his fans who miss him. :(
Thanks so much Destiny. That was so nice of you and your girlfriend.
Thank you also BWF for taking time to go visit the Memorial.
As far as todays pics. I can't comment. Just don't know what to say. Just dont know what to say.
I don't think we are making excuses for Jake...Yeah sure it would be nicer if he was not out Reese, but you know what? We can't pretend that they are not friends. Jake needs his friends right now and she is one of them no matter what. To tell you the truth I'm just happy to know that Jake is not alone in his time of need. And I'm even glad that Reese is there for him.
But Jakewatch was very anti-Toothy, weren't they?
What did the missive from the Gyllenhaals say? How distraught and upset Jake was--bla bla.
You know, I don't care anymore. I'm so sorry for Michelle, Matilda and Heath's family. And I wish Michelle and Heath would have chosen a better person and real friend to be M's godfather.
Who knows, Tom - business as usual anyway.
Very interesting post - it makes me wonder if such regret might have something to do with the status issues older women have to face, not to mention the changed hormonal mix.
Thank you hj and thank you, destiny.
1:41, I agree with you. We need to turn this blog into a memoriam for Heath and forget about Jake, who was no real friend to Heath--and ditto for ALL the skanks/druggies/enablers who he surrounded himself with in NYC.
The more I read about how Michelle was against the drugs and tried to put her foot down, the more respect I have for her. The others who enabled him, who couldn't be bothered (Jake) or who were in denial--shame on them. Our boy needed an intervention and needed it fast.
But that didn't happen and now he's in a box going to Australia.
Thank you Canadian for being a voice of reason. Unlike some of the nastiness thrown at Jake was Heath's friend. Jake is allowed to grieve any way he wants to. That is not making excuses, that is reality.
My thoughts are with you Jake and all of Heath's family and friends.
2:05, I was thinking the same thing. All of these hangers-on surrounding him were no help to him at all. Where was everyone to help him? He was left alone. I have great respect now for Michelle too. It's just awful. :(
Why on this of all weekends do you take the kids and dogs to a public park for a walk?
Jake is being hunted by the paparazzi, TMZ tried to hire extra people to follow him in NM.
But upon returning to LA he takes Reese's kids out? FOR WHAT?
To get photographed. That is the only sad sick answer.
They are two peas in a pod. Ryan must be ready to commit homicide.
Of course, to be photographed!
And she made the effort to wear stipes, in Heath's memory I suppose.
I don't question Jake's grief coming through here; it's very real. But through Jeese? To say I'm aghast would be an understatement. To see where his priorities lay at *this* time...I don't know. I care dearly about him in the wake of Heath's passing, but he's going to have to figure it out for himself and I'm going to have to worry less about it.
Thank you for your beautiful tribute and visit to Heath's memorial, destiny, on behalf of us all. It means a great deal.
Good post. I think sometimes transsexuals might have a even tougher time, the initial internal struggle must have been tough. I remember watching a made-for-TV movie which was inspired or based upon Richards' story. I forgot the name... maybe i can check imdb later on.
Jake looks visibly upset. I don't care who's with him, in a way, I'm just glad he's not alone. Just like I wish Heath was not all alone when tragedy happened, that he had someone with him on that fateful day.
Who knows what's going through Jake's mind these days? and what's the arrangement between the families? leave him be.
FYI... the movie about Richards is called "Second Serve", she was played by Vanessa Redgraves. I remember I quite enjoyed it. She was brave in that movie.
Yeah if they wanted to go for a walk with the dogs they could of gone thru Reese's gated neighborhood. And I doubt very much that paps are twiddling their thumbs waiting in the parking lots of LA's public parks to get pics of celebs going on walks. What a coincidence that they just happened to get Reeke!
I know you are posting right now, 360,in order to salvage your client's reputation. But this is a site - despite believing that Jake is gay/bi - that is very supportive of Jake and views him with compassion. If you are truly concerned with his reputation, I suggest you instead monitor Datalounge, where people are not concerned with being fans and the benefit of the doubt that that entails, and instead are trashing Jake and his bearding decisions left right and center.
I personally think people can grieve how they want, as so 99% of the people on this site. So check out Datalounge if you want the truth of how people - Jake's real wider audience, not "fans" - genuinely feel. You will be shocked, as I was.
Thanks for all the posts - its been a comfort reading people's thoughts this past week, even though I've been unable to post. Still feel in shock over the injustice and tragedy of Heath's passing. I don't think this will ever fully sink in. And right now I'm feeling angry at all Heath's "friends" for not giving a shit and doing something to help him. And sorry that includes Jake who frankly I wonder if we even really know anymore.
We need to turn this blog into a memoriam for Heath and forget about Jake
That will not be happening here. Why don't you create that, if you want to participate in such a community? We'll link to you if you do.
Someone makes reference to a "missive" they received from the gyllenhaal family in the comments. Curious, since in 2 yrs of trying jakewatch could not get the time of day from them. Close to management, eh?
Jake Watch did manage to get close to Cantara, though. Maybe it's her.
Re the new Jake pics: seeing these make me even more sure that the Thursday sighting never happened. I think Jake has been quite upset ever since he heard the news, and that smiling and laughing is out right now. But that sighting DID get out and into the public. And it made BOTH of them look bad. Maybe they felt they had to counter it with public proof of their grief.
Jake needs his friends right now and she is one of them no matter what. To tell you the truth I'm just happy to know that Jake is not alone in his time of need. And I'm even glad that Reese is there for him.
Me too. I really don't think Jake taking a walk with Reese is so awful. I do think they're friends, and if going out for a walk with her and the kids makes him feel better, and it probably did!, then great.
Forgot to say thank you to Destiny for leaving a lovely tribute to Heath on behalf of OMG. I really love it that it was blue roses. Unique, like Heath was.
Yeah its good to see Jake with friends right now. Well, one friend so far. It'll be interesting if pics of him with other friends (Austin, Chris, etc) and family crop up. If they don't, I'll really be wondering why.
TINKERBELL, YESTERDAY WITH THAT OTHER BITCH IN THE PARK WAS JUST A PHOTO OP. I HAD NO CHOICE. SHE MEANS NOTHING TO ME. I DIDN'T EVEN SNIFF HER. I LOVE ONLY YOU TINKY.
The commenter did not go into much detail re the "missive" and I was not interested in slogging through prior pages to get more details. Apparently it was not the first time it had come up. It had something to do with how the family felt Ted was an insignicant gnat so whoever guessed Cantara is probably right. I think she used those very words once before.
Tried to check out datalounge but got a message saying closed for maintenance. will try again. I almost never go there. Didn't someone do Jake and Reese's horoscope chart recently and say that together they were the kiss of death. Can't recall what site I saw that on but it does seem they can do no right.
BIG BAD ATTI
LOL!
I, too wonder how can some posters still find excuses for Jake after this set of pics? This is who he really is, it’s such a shame he managed to fool me for so long. :(
Hmmmm . . . never did think Cantara would go quietly . . . I'll bet that's what it is, that harpy is now roostiing over at GB.
And right now I'm feeling angry at all Heath's "friends" for not giving a shit and doing something to help him. And sorry that includes Jake who frankly I wonder if we even really know anymore."
It hurts me that he died alone (I don't consider the idiot masseuse who was trying to cover her butt or Olsen's goons to be real companions!). That's so painful to me. I think about it and it makes me cry.
At least Christian Brando did not die alone (according to Janet Charlton). He had a gf sit by his side every day until he passed.
3:21, I wonder why no photos of him and his bf Chris?? Maybe cause he moved back to NYC? It's weird.
Destiny -- thank you for doing that from all of us here at OMG.
I think you might be on to something Wicked about countering the bogus sighting.
And right now I'm feeling angry at all Heath's "friends" for not giving a shit and doing something to help him.
Many people think Heath was struggling with demons that could have led to his death. If this is true, we don't know what his friends and family may have tried to do to help him. Sometimes people do try to help and their efforts are rebuffed. And sometimes the troubled person will cut the person who attempted to help out of his/her life. You have to keep in mind that we didn't know Heath and have no idea what his relationships with the other people in his life were like. And we don't know what he may or may not have been struggling with.
Can't look at the recent pics, won't look, refuse to give X17, 360, Reeke and Jake a hit. There will be nothing from me that could even remotely be miscontrued as a stamp of approval, mild interest or a way to pass the time between loads of laundry for his shameless behavior.
If the man has the intestinal fortitude to walk with the beard, kids and dog for the camera, he has the strength to issue a statement about the death of his friend and fellow actor.
There has been something missing from Jake since the showmance began, we thought it was a spark of happiness or the lack of freedom of choice. Well, we were wrong. The absent piece of Jake was integrity, and apparently that was never there at all.
Jake is dead to me now, but there will be no mourning. He's not worth a single tear.
It hurts me that he died alone (I don't consider the idiot masseuse who was trying to cover her butt or Olsen's goons to be real companions!). That's so painful to me. I think about it and it makes me cry.
This is particularly heartbreaking. He deserved better. Its very painful to think this could have been avoided. The situation with the masseuse and MKO is just mind-boggling.
Many people think Heath was struggling with demons that could have led to his death. If this is true, we don't know what his friends and family may have tried to do to help him
I think Heath's demons were that he was a sensitive, gentle, wise soul in a cruel, insensitive world. It's true that we can't know for sure what his friends did, if anything, but it still strikes me that he probably didn't have anyone around him who cared enough to go the extra mile. I hope I'm wrong.
If the man has the intestinal fortitude to walk with the beard, kids and dog for the camera, he has the strength to issue a statement about the death of his friend and fellow actor.
It doesn't surprise me in the least that when the public is clamoring for a pic of Jake Gyllenhaal that we not only get one but we get one with Reese, the kids and his dogs. Once again we get the new Jake "image" of completely straight family man.
One thing I can say that I loved about Heath was that Heath was always Heath. He didn't bullshit. He was always the same. With Jake, it seems you never know what you're going to get.
Do some of you realize how cruel and heartless you sound?
FYI... the movie about Richards is called "Second Serve", she was played by Vanessa Redgraves.
I had completely forgotten about this movie! Thanks for the reminder, Winterbird. One of the interesting things about Renee Richards to me is that she now says the IOC is stupid to allow transsexuals to compete after she fought to be able to compete herself in 1975.
I wonder if doctors today would accept to perform a sex change on a person with the background of Renée Richards'.
I wonder if Richards would feel the same if she had had her surgery now instead of in 1975. Techniques have advanced so much and maybe she would have been happier with the outcome.
I wonder if Richards would feel the same if she had had her surgery now instead of in 1975. Techniques have advanced so much and maybe she would have been happier with the outcome.
Wicked, I don't know much about Richards. Had she ever expressed dissatisfaction with the results, physical or otherwise?
NauticalNaughtyGirl said...
If the man has the intestinal fortitude to walk with the beard, kids and dog for the camera, he has the strength to issue a statement about the death of his friend and fellow actor.
It doesn't surprise me in the least that when the public is clamoring for a pic of Jake Gyllenhaal that we not only get one but we get one with Reese, the kids and his dogs. Once again we get the new Jake "image" of completely straight family man.
One thing I can say that I loved about Heath was that Heath was always Heath. He didn't bullshit. He was always the same. With Jake, it seems you never know what you're going to get.
I can't argue with this statement at all. I think Jake is a tad bit on the spoiled side and things have come to him fairly easily ao far. Maybe he is questioning his ability as an actor and a star and is willing to sell his soul to get what he wants. Not sure if that is true but it is a possibility.
Jake has been in the business for a long time and BBM brought him to the brink of stardom. I think he needs to hook up with Jodies PR team:-) They kept her sexuality out of the news until recently and she never has went to the extremes that Jake has recently. She didnt have to live a lie. I read someone questioning Jakes intelligence today. I dont think Jake is stupid at all. I think he is very bright. I do think he is not his own man yet and he better realize it soon.
Tom
Where did you read someone questioning Jake's intelligence?
? said...
Tom
Where did you read someone questioning Jake's intelligence?
From whence we came ? The word miniscule was used in reference to an organ in Jakes body.
more pics of Jake alone in Brentwood on Saturday
http://www.fadedyouthblog.com/21312/jake-surfaces/
From whence we came... Tom is that a website or something? Yes making fun of Jake's intelligence that always makes people sound more mature to me. *rolls eyes*
Wicked, I don't know much about Richards. Had she ever expressed dissatisfaction with the results, physical or otherwise?
Frenchy, this quote from the Spotlight makes me think she might have been unhappy with the results of the surgery-
"Better to be an intact man functioning with 100 percent capacity for everything than to be a transsexual woman who is an imperfect woman.”"
I also found quotes where she referred to herself as a second-class woman. I don't know if these quotes are about not being born a woman or to not being happy with the results of the surgery, but I wondered.
Yes, it's a website, fromwhencewecame.com
Thanks Wicked. This makes me want to look into the history of people like her. I've already bookmarked a couple of sites I'll visit. We so rarely hear about transexuals and the challenges they're faced with!
Jake is dead to me now, but there will be no mourning. He's not worth a single tear.
Oh!
He's worth a...
...never mind.
Question....why do so many of you say Jake & Reese are friends? Did they become friends because of the bearding program or were they friends before?
Wicked may have a point about countering the bogus sighting, but we don't know for sure if it was bogus.
Whichever way you look at it, to appear with his BEARD at this time is just disgusting.
I will always associate BBM with Heath/Ennis. Jake has become an insult to the message of BBM.
If he beards, it because he wants to. He thinks he's going to make the A-list - not with this level of ridicule he's getting.
Ugh, a lot of you sound like vile, cruel people. Why do you need to get so angry and vulgar about Jake? We don't know how he feels or what his relationship with Heath or Reese really is/was. It is not about putting him on a pedestal but seeing that he is a human being with feelings, flaws and good qualities.
Just like to make another point. Everyone is talking about Heath's heartrending performance in BBM, about how he took the risk and went against his agent's advise to play the role of Ennis. and what does Jake (the other half of BBM) do? takes a stroll with his beard & her family?? Does this guy have a deathwish (career wise) or something? I mean couldn't he just walk by himself looking grief stricken?? why the beard, family, dogs?
I will always associate BBM with Heath/Ennis. Jake has become an insult to the message of BBM.
Please help me understand why Jake has to live up to the message propagated by a film in which he "acted out" a character.
IMO, he has been obviously very successful in making an impression on the viewer. That is all an actor does. And then he moves on - hoping that the viewer will continue to focus on the "issue" and not him.
7:13 is me. Got a bad feeling
Rattler Jake used that issue for a very very long time to extend his exposure while he was not working. He turned his back on the issue very quickly. So do you have a reason for that?
"Why do you need to get so angry and vulgar about Jake? "
Because the public doesn't like to be deceived. Cos the Jake that was portrayed soon after BBM until about Oct 07, sure ain't the Jake we're we're seeing now! so someone sure has or is, pushing an image that is totally fake. and Jake obviously is happy to go along...
How has he turned his back on anything? He is still friends with Rufus W. etc. Just because he is with Reese you have no idea he is lying to you! How about getting angry at some of Ted Casablanca's lies that haven't come true. No, you make excuses for him. If you don't like Jake and Reese, fine but this scary and uncalled for hostility is not based in facts. Both sides, PR and Ted have their own reasons and agendas.
Please help me understand why Jake has to live up to the message propagated by a film in which he "acted out" a character.
I would love to answer that but I don't know where to even begin and if I started, I don't think I'll be able to stop...so please, pretty please don't be obtuse, we're not talking about any actor in any film, we're talking about Jake, Toothy and the whole damn rigmarole !
Sorry, never mentioned Ted or made excuses for him in any of my posts. Perceptions around Jake are based on more than just what Ted says.
So do you have a reason for that?
The answer lies in the dichotomy of each of our lives. IMO, most of us have a public image and then, a very private one, that is revealed only to near and dear ones.
I don't think Jake has turned back on any of the issues projected by him in a film - as a professional actor. How he deals with these issues within the limits of his own psyche is another story. His private thoughts are never revealed to any of us in this blog (IMO). I too am not privy to this knowledge, hence I just refrain from pronouncing any moral judgments - and continue to wear Special K's pink glasses instead.
Destiny, thank you for the blue roses and candle for Heath's memorial. It makes me feel a bit better to know that you were able to make this lovely tribute on our behalf.
Sorry, Got a Bad Feeling. I deleted your anon comment at 7:13 before I saw it was claimed.
Because the public doesn't like to be deceived.
(smiles)
The product of Hollywood, like a magic trick, is illusion.
The "public" is meant to be deceived. We pay for it.
I'm probably going to cop a lot of flak for this one and I've refrained from saying it over the years but here is why I look at the events of the past week and how Jake reacts to it differently then most people.
I have never believed that Jake and Heath are close friends. I believe that they created a unique bond whilst creating two amazing characters.
I believe that actors/actresses get caught up with intense feelings on film sets that don't always continue into their real lives.
I believe that during the emotion of BBM promotion, Jake got named godfather and that he hasn't been an overly active one.
I believe that after BBM promotion and the awards season, Jake and Heath realised they didn't have much in common but maintained contact (probably through emails) and kept up with each other's lives but may not have known each other's innermost feelings on various topics.
Here's why:
The two men had not been seen in public together since the Oscars they were nominated in (almost two years)
When BBM promotion started, Jake relayed a story of bumping into each other a few days after private screenings for BBM and not being sure whether they liked the film or not. They indicated that they had not seen each other since BBM wrapped up, a period of about a year and a half.
They only stopped to talk because they bumped into each other? They didn't even call each other to talk after the screenings?
Jake went over to NY for the birth of Ramona and returned to LA the day before Matilda's first birthday.
I'm sure that Jake is devastated by Heath's death. I'm stunned and I never even met the man.
And I'm sure Jake feels a level of guilt that he could have done more.
But I don't think he deserves the burden that the media and fans alike are putting on him. There are countless actors/actresses that Heath worked with and made some level of friendship with over the years.
All of them are being left alone.
So should Jake.
Rumor that Jake was at the LA memorial
Scroll down to the comment by Abigail.
I heard a rumor from a friend in LA that attendees included R. Crowe and Jake G and a director friend of his ( i can't remember the name ) were there.
AG, there is a lot of merit in what you say. I've always wondered, and obviously I don't know, if Jake and Heath were "work friends." Close while working together but when the job's over they drift apart and both are okay with it.
The status (dead or alive?)of Atticus has been questioned on other sites, funny how he and Reeses dog came along for the walk this time. And the pics of Jake with coffee and one muffin/pastry in the bag - FadedYouth says Saturday morning, JustJared says Sun morning, I beleiev FY becuase he's in the same exact clothes as the Park Sat pics. And he's not stupid enough to be seen with Reese in the same clothes 2 days in a row. Anyway, Sat morn, stops for 1 cup of coffee and 1 snack. Hmm. Makes me wonder if he didn't just honk outside Reeses house for them to hurry and pile in to go to the park. Or if he dropped the gang off at the curb at their house after the park and then stopped to get some comforting hot coffee and a sweet baked treat on his way home.
BBM was incredible, wonderful, touching movie that changed cinematic history and many lives. I think Jake and Heath did make a unique bond because they knew that this movie would tie them together for the rest of their lives.
Edie Falco just said something during tonight's SAG awards that struck me. "This is a transient business we are not supposed to get attached"
We don't know what they nature of their relationship was when they went on with their lives after Brokeback. It some ways they were parallel and in other they were moving in divergent directions.
I think they would always remain friends on some level because of BBM, but the depth of that friendship would have been of interesting series of ebbs and flows, but unfortunately now that will never be known.
And I agree with AG and WICKED about Heath & Jake being work friends. Being a godparent doesn't mean much in the US but the way the media is taking it youd think Jake is going to live with Michelle and raise Matilda with her. *rolls eyes* I'm sure Jake hurts, its hard when you lose a peer and I think this is the first time Jake has lost someone around his own age.
The "public" is meant to be deceived. We pay for it.
We pay for the deception to be good enough that we can't detect it.
Jake is going to live with Michelle and raise Matilda with her. *rolls eyes* I'm sure Jake hurts, its hard when you lose a peer and I think this is the first time Jake has lost someone around his own age."
I agree. I think this is painful for Jake because it's the first time he's lost someone around his age. I don't understand WHY Heath made him godfather and not Martin Henderson who he was very close with (and who probably attended that service in LA) but c'est la vie (actually I read it was Michelle's idea).
Clearly, Matilda has a good godmother in Busy Phillips, Michelle's bf, who was waiting for Michelle and Matilda (along with Michelle's mother) at the Brooklyn house (she used to share with Heath) when Michelle was flying back from Sweden to NY following Heath's death.
Honestly, Michelle is probably going to marry someone else and he will end up raising Matilda with Michelle.
innuendo, can't stay away from gyllenbabble can you, hee.
Teal: You can tell he has one muffin in the bag from those pics? Amazing!!
Methinks Jake sold his place in Hollywood Hills and moved to Brentwood, not with Reese but near her, it would explain alot.
Broadwayfan, clearly you didn't read that Jake may have attended the memorial. I know you want to think the worst of him but that may not be the case.
innuendo, can't stay away from gyllenbabble can you, hee.
And you can't stay away from here, so we're even. :)
Please don't insult our intelligence with "rumors" that he was at the memorial service. He either was or he wasn't, and without confirmation, it means nothing. Period.
I'm not terribly impressed with that rumor that Jake attended the memorial. It's that I heard from a friend thing. A lot of the time not credible. I do hope Jake was there, and I'd love to see some confirmation of it.
Are Special or Wicked around? What is going on here? This place is becoming polluted by ugliness. It is one thing to express your frustration with Jake, it is another to bash him into the ground in a troll like frenzy. I don't come here for hatred, I come here for Jake and Austin.
AG I've often wondered the same thing about Jake and Heath, and I think I've even said so in the past (but not in many moons). But regardless of the level of their friendship, I'm sure he has been hurt by all of this. And I don't have any problems with him going out and doing something like hiking, walking is something I often do when I'm upset. What I have problems with is it being another pr opportunity and/or the fact we're not say, seeing him out with family, Austin or Chris as well. The more PR wants us to believe Reese is the only one in his life, the phonier it looks. This is one time they shouldn't have hit the speed dial for the paps.
And Evelyn, we all know X17 is the backup to flynet.
^^Translation: We don't like it when Jake is perceived as less than flawless.
sorry, my comment was in answer to 9:10's.
We pay for the deception to be good enough that we can't detect it.
The burden of "detection" is heavy.
I prefer to lay back and savor the illusion while it lasts. Reality is always around to knock on the door of my convictions.
Destiny I meant to thank you earlier for the flowers and gifts you dropped off at Heath's memorial. Its a real comfort to know we got to send our condolences through your thoughtful words and gesture.
Insult to injury - don't put words in my mouth. That is not what I said or what I meant.
“Illusions are art, for the feeling person, and it is by art that we live, if we do”
Elizabeth Bowen
My friend gets credit for the flowers; I couldn't find any in the immediate neighborhood or the one I was coming from, and she generously shared her flowers. And all of you here get credit for giving me the idea to go; I'm glad I was able to do it for everyone.
Where are you- Spesh and I are not here to censor. We want to delete as minimally as possible. People are allowed to express their frustration with Jake. Name-calling, however, will be deleted. And it just was.
I prefer to lay back and savor the illusion while it lasts.
I prefer to call bullshit as soon as I smell it. Everybody's different.
I prefer to call bullshit as soon as I smell it. Everybody's different.
True.
I don't usually look for BS in cinema. Looking down, I find that I am already knee-deep in it.
Well I hope you all judge yourselves and everyone you know this way. I hope you call yourselves the same names you call Jake. I hope you talk to everyone who you know who does anything that isn't perfect in the same insulting and accusatory way. And I hope they do the same to you. Want to make sure you are a perfect as all that and that you live lives that others can judge and make commentary as if they know every little thing about you. Hope that moral superiority works for you.
Daniel Day Lewis dedicated his SAG Actor for Outstanding Actor in a Film to Heath.
He paid tribute to Heath's roles in Monster's Ball and Brokeback Mountain.
That was a beautiful speech. He said Heath was perfect in BBM, especially the last scene in the trailer.
I LOVE DDL!! And this makes me love him more.
And Julie Christie is looking fine!!!!
{{{{{{Daniel Day Lewis}}}}}}}}} That was such a loving heartfelt tribute to Heath. I'd always wanted to see Heath Ledger act along side him or Sean Penn in a film. Even if they just read the phone book I would have been first to line up to buy a ticket to watch that greatness
And besides DDL, Ryan Gosling and his sister both wore black ribbons in memory of Heath, they mentioned how saddened they were.
Yes, I was so excited when I read that Heath was going to co-star in a movie with Sean but then he dropped out.
That was just a beautiful thing to do, and Heath truly was perfect in BBM. I've loved Daniel Day-Lewis in everything I've seen him in since My Beautiful Laundrette. He's truly a class act. It was lovely of Ryan Gosling and his sister as well. :')
Wonderful words from Christopher Nolan
http://www.newsweek.com/id/105580
I'm very curious about the scolding troll(s). They/he seem to be everywhere tonight delivering strong words to anyone daring to question Jake's behavior.
A few zealots? Or Jake's team doing cleanup on aisle nine? I'm betting the latter because it's an organized defense.
Just my opinion. I still think Jake is a decent person. I also think he is getting terrible advise.
"Many people think Heath was struggling with demons that could have led to his death. If this is true, we don't know what his friends and family may have tried to do to help him. Sometimes people do try to help and their efforts are rebuffed. And sometimes the troubled person will cut the person who attempted to help out of his/her life. You have to keep in mind that we didn't know Heath and have no idea what his relationships with the other people in his life were like. And we don't know what he may or may not have been"
Thank you Wicked. Well said. Let's stop the blame Jake, blame anyone game, PLEASE
Or Jake's team doing cleanup on aisle nine?
This is what I think as well; a case of too little, too late, I believe. ;)
TR,
I agree with you about the terrible advice. But then Jake's handlers have CONSTANTLY been giving him bad advice. Maybe it's Reese's PR team--disassociate himself from that nasty drug addict who will probably in death become more famous than Jake ever will be.
Actually the all out assault defense is a Team Reese standard tactic. Her defenders are incredulous, horrified, and shocked that you could twist anything she does to be negative. Ten people will come along to tell you how pathetic and stupid you are.
Maybe Jake and Reese have merged teams. When Ryan was with Reese William Morris and BWR repped both stars.
I understand that there's no way to know if who cut whom out of anyone's life, if that is what really happened. We really don't know. But surely, someone who worked with Heath as closely as Jake could see their way fit to say a few kind words in memoriam - if not as a friend, then as a colleague, or just someone whose work he admired. A talented, beautiful man is gone - I just don't get it.
Daniel Day Lewis's acceptance speech at the SAGs:
"Thank you. I’m very, very proud of this. Thank you so much for giving it to me. And I’m very proud to be included in that group of wonderful actors this year.
You know, for as long as I can remember, the thing that gave me a sense of wonderment, of renewal, the thing that teased me with the question, how is such a thing possible, and then dare you to go back into the arena of one more time, with longing and self-doubt, jostling in the balance. It’s always been the work of other actors, and there are many actors in this room tonight, including my fellow nominees who have given that sense of regeneration and…
Heath Ledger gave it to me. [applause] In “Monster’s Ball,” that character that he created, it seemed to be almost like an unformed being, retreating from themselves, retreating from his father, from his life, even retreating from us, and yet we wanted to follow him, and yet we’re scared to follow him almost. It was unique. And then, of course, in “Brokeback Mountain,” he was unique, he was perfect. [applause] And that scene in the trailer at the end of the film is as moving as anything that I think I’ve ever seen. And I’d like to dedicate this to Heath Ledger. So, thank you very much. Thank you so much." [applause]
Just a question for broadwayfan, aka I-figured-out-all-about-Jake-Gyllenhaal: if you SO despise him what are you doing again and again on a site related to him? wouldn't it be better for you to just move on instead of trash everywhere with your beyond insulting comments? What do you KNOW anyway ZIPPO, but you big mouth has to keep bubbling. Jeez. I would start worrying about why you are so full of hatred, I don't think it is healty.
Damned right I don't want Jake to be linked to that DRUG ADDICT! EEWWW. He died of a drug overdose, nude, on the floor, with pills everywhere! I can't have Jake associated with such...such FILTH. I represent wholesomeness. I mean, I can't understand how legitimate actresses, not porn girls, could do nude scenes in films! I never do because I have morals and am decent. Jake is the same way. We can't be brought down by that person who Jake worked with a few years ago. We're better than that ,even if it is unfortunate Mr. Ledger died so young.
Oh well, time to get rested for another day. Jake, can you scratch my back please?
Daniel Day Lewis's dedication of his award to Heath was beautiful. Thanks for repeating the words for those of us not watching. One true artist recognizing another, even bowing to a superior one. I am going to order Monsters Ball just to rewatch Heath's performance. Of course I have seen BBM too many times to count. I was also blown away by C. Nolan's comments. That he wanted to merit Heath's approval of his edited film speaks volumes.
Well, before 360 Mgmt. recommended Jake for a lobotomy (is that why he's at medical offices all the time?) he was the kind of man who expressed his feelings freely, was described as someone who wore his heart on his sleeve. What is wrong with that? Now suddenly, he's "stoic", grieving in private, and has clammed up about just about everything, ever since being associated with Reeke. Not like the Jake we've seen in interviews, who was so lovely. What happened????
I'll tell you what happened Jake's P***y whipped, that's what happened.
I've been thinking more about the LA park walk. It was cold, windy and off/on rainy on Sat (been rainy on Thurs and Fri too). I'm in the LA area so I know this. The rain was soft and then it would get really hard, pounding without any warning. Why would anyone go out on a day like that with it so unpredictable, especially with small children? And why would they take dogs that would get all muddy?
I'm inclined to believe that this "hike" was more of a "gather around the car and walk around the asphalt parking lot" photo op.
Another thing is the cap Jake is wearing. A lavender/purple baseball cap. Out of character for Jake, don't you think? Maybe Jake wore it for Heath (he liked purple and orange), maybe it was Heaths cap. And I'm not saying anything but it looks to me more Austin's color. (Anyone have pics of Austin in a purple cap?) Or maybe its just Jake's. But I am very surprised at the purple cap.
And yeah whoever asked how I could tell there was only 1 muffin/pastry in Jakes bag. I get coffee and treats there too and I know what the bags look like and what they can fit.
Teal, I thought that the color of Jake's cap reminded me of Heath too, because Heath obviously adored lavender.
Maybe that was Heath's cap which he gave to him awhile ago?
Teal, I wondered about the weather issue too. I am in No Ca, where it's been raining off and on last 3 days. All the news reports say it's been even worse in LA. We Californians are sissies when it comes to rain. I have barely left my house and wondered why on earth they would take a hike with the weather, let alone the circumstances. That said, emotions are high, nerves are frazzled, people are angry that Heath is gone and lashing out. I am making no judgements for a while. I think it will improve once Heath is buried. There is something about that act that signals it's OK to move forward.
insult to injury, why aren't you demanding a statement from Michelle, Matt Damon, Christian Bale, Naomi Watts, Maggie Gyllenhaal et al? None of them have given statements. We don't know what Jake is or isn't doing behind the scenes with the family, Michelle, Matilda.
Everyone wants to put Jake under this microscope and burn him to smithereens. Even though they don't know him and he hasn't done anything to them personally. Has Jake personally hurt anyone here, laid a hand, said a bad word to you in person? My guess is not. Sure he has faults, all of us do, but the hatred seems really uncalled for.
Well if Jake is pussy whipped he had more than just a lobotomy done, he had a couple other things removed.
I never liked Greasy Reezy. Phoney as all get out. A domineering self-obsessed boor under that sweet ol southern gal facade. Only the good die young - she'll live to be 150.
There's nothing to wonder about on why Jake is pussy whipped. Greasy Reezy makes everyone wither. Thank god Ryan got out. Deacon is too young to know but have you ever noticed how Ava is NEVER smiling, carefree and happy like most kids are when she's with her "wonderful mother"? That girl's gonna be on the therapist couch sooner than later. (Well lets hope its that and not a cold slab).
Brokeback Mountain was not just any movie - it was ground-breaking. Their working together in this film should be acknowledged by his direct co-star now that he has died, if for no other reason. That is why I am not "demanding" a statement from anyone else, as you put it. I'm not demanding a statement from him either, just wondering why. It's an entirely different situation - this important film changed lives and minds, Heath and Jake made history together with this film. I find it unusual that there's nothing from him.
Forgot to add - to me it gives the impression that he, or whoever is ill-advising him, wants to distance him from "the gay", and that gives a very bad impression IMO, and I wonder why he would do that.
Remember the time Jake used to hang with Lance A? and the amount of nasty gay jokes that were heaped on him and he just took them all?? and now he's sooo straight? seems like he'll do whatever to get him roles in HW. Sad , anyone has to stoop to that level. Guess there's nothing else to do when your films bomb at the box office you ain't that hot an actor.
sorry, it's flf at 2.00am.
What destiny at 9:22 and i to i above, both said.
A statement from Jake would be/would have been (because it's almost too late now) proper and welcomed, and I think he is receiving bad advice. However, I also thought he was independent-minded enough to ignore bad advice. This disappointment I feel is as strong as it's going to get for me - I'm not going to trash him, but I am disappointed about his apparent priorities, or lack of same. It's easy, Jake - feel it, say it - a couple of words would have been enough.
It would have been NICE if Jake had made some statement about Heath. Even thru his rep in 2 sentences 'I am shocked and saddened by Heath's passing. He was a great man/friend/actor' something like that. And sure its not mandatory for Jake to say anything but yeah it would have been NICE. It would have taken very little time and effort but it would have showed A LOT of class.
Which makes me wonder what Jake's PR - you know, PUBLIC RELATIONS - people are doing for him. What the fuck do they do all day, sit and watch blogs, set up interviews when films come out, make appts for photo ops? Whoopdeedoo. These are so-called professionals with university degrees in Public Relations, people. And as for Jakes image they haven't been doing shit.
London TB, glad to see we feel the same. Just a few words, a couple of sentences...
I agree with you London tb. I feel extremely disappointed that Jake considered a staged photo opportunity his top priority during this tragedy.
Destiny,
Thank you so much for going to
Heath's memorial. I think that is
wonderful. OMG does not have any
intention of closing, does it? I
surely hope not for it is needed.
I too think just a few words
would have been appropriate. But
Jake will live his own way as he sees fit.
The loss of Heath is just so
unexpected and he was so young. But what an exceptional talent he
was. That's just my opinion.
I will always think J&A were
involved at one time. At the present time, I do not know. I do
think Ted has better sources than
some columnists in HW.
*now while everyone's asleep hides the diamond toe ring loverboy Atti gave her saturday night under the sofa*
*exhales dogbreath with giant relief that Moms hasn't discovered the hickey*
*goes back to sleep, dreams of lying in the clear blue foamy surf on a deserted sun-kissed tropical beach making passionate love to feral cat*
*jerks awake, feeling unsettled and more than a little sick*
*has 2nd thoughts about the sofa, silently moves the toe ring to her other secret place*
*plops down, closes eyes and prays to the big lassie in the sky to take care of Moms and Atti and hopes everything will work out*
Remember Jake and Heath up on stage during the SAG Awards 2 years ago... How things have changed since then!
Though Jake has been silent thus far, he can't really avoid saying something at some point. It would help him as well really, since it brings a bit of closure to a sad event and then everyone can move on the best they can.
When Brokeback was made, yes the cast and crew knew that it was different and groundbreaking, but go back and read the interviews with any of them, they never expected it to be as big of a movie as it became. And honestly how could they?
While it was a very special role to each of them, they had to go on to do the next thing when BBM wrapped. Look at Heath he went to do Cassanova, because he needed to do something completely different and something lighter. Jake went right into Jarhead as soon as BBM wrapped. They move to new projects and focus on giving that new role their fullest focus and attention so that too will be their best performance. That's what actors do.
That's to not to say that actors don't cherish roles they played. But they have to go on and do other roles and other challenges, that's being an actor. Like I said before, Jake and Heath knew that they would be forever associated to the other because of that role. But I don't think they every expected BBM to become what it was, or two of them together to become what they became. I don't think their friendship not matter its depth or length,m would ever match what their characters became.
I think it is unfair to put an expectation on Jake's grief that is greater than others. I think it is unfair to put grief expectations on anyone. The depth of the grief, the actions during grief, or the length of their grief.
That being said - it is disappointing that park pictures had to occur. I think Wicked was on to something about having to deal with the erroneous sighting that happened. But that is what management does, business, that is what they do.
My biggest problem with pictures is the smirky grin on Reese's face. Talk about undermining their campaign of legitimacy - she shot herself in the foot with that one, or should I just say chin.
Getting off my box and readjusting my rose colored glasses.
Tink! You are not leaving this house, young lady!
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