I am just incredibly shocked and saddened at the news this afternoon that Academy Award-nominated actor Heath Ledger, 28, was found dead in his New York City apartment. The star of movies that we grew up with (10 Things I Hate About You, The Patriot, A Knight’s Tale) had just started to come into his own as an accomplished actor with the movie Brokeback Mountain. He was set to star as the Joker in this summer’s Batman movie

According to CNN.com, over-the-counter sleeping pills were found near Ledger’s body, hinting at a possible overdose or suicide. The latest reports say that his family was told his death was accidental. It seems like it will be a while before we know for sure exactly what happened. Ledger leaves behind a 2-year-old daughter named Matilda Rose, his child with fellow Brokeback Mountain star Michelle Williams.

The news of Ledger’s death seemed to really make me begin to realize that while stars like Britney Spears or Amy Winehouse grace the covers of tabloids and haunt the Internet with their exploits, there are others with real hidden problems. On the surface, Ledger seemed normal. He was quiet and shy and liked to keep his family and himself out of the spotlight. I think that is such a problem nowadays, the “what goes on behind closed doors” dilemma. When I hear stories like this, it makes me think of my own mortality. Most of all though, I want to help the person. However, it’s just hard because even though you try hard to help the person, it’s truly up to them. You can only be the loving and helpful family or friend who stands behind them the whole way.

Here’s to what seemed like a great man who was not only blessed with charming good looks but an incredible talent for acting.

RIP Heath.