Actor Philip Seymour Hoffman found dead

Oscar-winning American actor Philip Seymour Hoffman has been found dead in New York. The 46-year-old was found in his Manhattan apartment. The New York police department says that he may have died from a suspected drugs overdose. Hoffman was always a fascinating screen presence.  In particular, the actor was Paul Thomas Anderson‘s greatest collaborator, from Hard Eight to Boogie Nights to Magnolia to Punch-Drunk Love to, most recently, The Master.  Hoffman recently took on a role in the Hunger Games series, which is currently filming the final chapter, Mockingjay – Part 2.  Hoffman was also set to star in the Showtime series Happyish.[hit the jump to continue]

Hoffman was nominated for four Oscars in the last decade for Capote, Charlie Wilson’s War, Doubt, and The Master.

Hoffman’s family released a statement:
“We are devastated by the loss of our beloved Phil and appreciate the outpouring of love and support we have received from everyone. This is a tragic and sudden loss and we ask that you respect our privacy during this time of grieving. Please keep Phil in your thoughts and prayers.”

Statement From The Lionsgate Family:
“Philip Seymour Hoffman was a singular talent and one of the most gifted actors of our generation.  We’re very fortunate that he graced our Hunger Games family.  Losing him in his prime is a tragedy, and we send  our deepest condolences to Philip’s family.”

Apparently Hoffman’s work as Plutarch Heavensbee was almost completed on The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part I and he had seven days remaining to shoot on The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 2.  This tragedy will not affect the films’ scheduled release dates.