Philip Seymour Hoffman, a man of virtually many talents but chose to play very selective roles, has passed away at the age of 46 due to a drug overdose. According to the Wall Street Journal and The New York Post, the actor was found dead in his New York apartment.
The actor was most recently seen at the Sundance Film Festival where he debuted A Most Wanted Man, but audiences may recognize him for his most recent work in last year’s number one film The Hunger Games: Catching Fire.
According the The New York Post, Hoffman’s assistant was the first to find him, and then proceeded to call 911 when he remained unresponsive. Police found heroine in Hoffman’s apartment as well.
The actor has reportedly relapsed after undergoing treatment for his addiction.
Throughout his storied career, Hoffman had starred in a variety of films from mega blockbusters like Twister Mission: Impossible III, and The Hunger Games: Catching Fire to indie flicks like Boogie Nights, Almost Famous, and Punch Drunk Love. The actor was nominated four times for an Academy Award for his performances in Capote, Charlie Wilson’s War, Doubt, and The Master.
He was working on his second directorial effort, Ezekiel Moss, before he passed, as well as getting ready to appear on Showtime’s Happyish. No word yet on how this will affect The Hunger Games: Catching Fire Part 2, which is currently filming.
Here is one of our favorite clips of Philip Seymour Hoffman in Almost Famous.
Update: Lionsgate has issued a statement in regards to Hoffman’s passing. It reads:
“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.”
The Wall Street Journal adds that while the actor did have seven days remaining to complete his work on The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 2, his death will in no way impact the production of the film. The Hunger Games Mockingjay Part 1 and The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 2 will continue to be released as scheduled on November 21, 2014 and November 20, 2015.