The Wall Street Journal is reporting that Philip Seymour Hoffman – best known recently for his role as Plutarch Heavensbee in The Hunger Games: Catching Fire – has been found dead in his New York City apartment.

Article Continues Below

Hoffman, who was 46, made a name for himself with stellar roles in films like Moneyball, Doubt, and The Big Lebowski. He won Best Actor at the 2005 Academy Awards for his role in Capote.

The actor received three Academy Award nominations as Best Supporting Actor and has also received three Tony Award nominations for his stunning work in theatre. He also directs plays, for which he has received great recognition.

Hoffman had become one of the most well respected actors in Hollywood over his career and recently made his way into the mainstream hit The Hunger Games: Catching Fire in 2013.

The Wall Street Journal cites a law-enforcement official as the source of the information.

The actor had struggled with substance abuse in the past year and checked himself into rehab last May. Police reportedly found heroin inside the apartment where Hoffman had been living.

Hoffman had multiple projects headed for release in 2014, including a Showtime comedy series. The actor was also reprising his role in The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 1 & 2.

Hoffman was born in Rochester, New York and has three children with his longtime partner Mimi O’Donnell. We send our deepest condolences to the beloved actor’s family and friends.

UPDATE: Hoffman’s family has issued 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.”

UPDATE 2: Lionsgate has issued a statement…

“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.”

Deadline reports that Hoffman had seven days left of filming on Mockingjay. They will not recast the role and will not delay the release date of Part 1 (which is set for November 2014).