JAKE GYLLENHAAL

Born: December 19, 1980

Los Angeles, California

At the age of 11, Jake made his film debut as Billy Crystal's son in the comedy City Slickers. Before jumping into bigger roles, Jake graduated from Harvard-Westlake School in Los Angeles and then went on to Columbia University. There he studied Eastern religions and philosophy. After college Jake pursued his acting career and got his "breakout role" in October Sky. That was only the beginning for the talented young actor who then went on to star in Donnie Darko, The Good Girl, The Day After Tomorrow and the controversial Brokeback Mountain. Gyllenhaal and his co-star, the late Heath Ledger, won an MTV Movie Award for "Best Kiss" in 2006. Jake also received "Best Supporting Actor" nods from The Screen Actors Guild, the Critic's Choice Awards as well as the Academy Awards for his performance in Brokeback.

Besides acting, Jake has played a role as a social and political activist. He campaigned for John Kerry and the Democratic Party during the 2004 election, has shot Rock the Vote advertising, and is also very involved with environmental causes. This sexy boy next door is one Young Hollywood loves seeing in action, whether it be on the big screen or playing a role as a social activist!

FUN FACTS:

Before becoming an actor, Jake worked as a busboy and a lifeguard.

His parents held his Bar Mitzvah at a homeless shelter so that Jake could feel gratitude about his privileged life style.

His production company is called Nine Stories.

Jake is a practicing Buddhist.