'Hunger Games' sequels to keep release dates despite Philip Seymour Hoffman's death

LOS ANGELES, Feb. 3 (UPI) -- Hunger Games sequels Mockingjay Part 1 and Part 2 won't be derailed over the death of cast member Philip Seymour Hoffman.

The 46-year-old actor played Head Gamemaker Plutarch Heavensbee in the saga's second installment, Catching Fire, and was supposed to reprise his role in the upcoming sequels as one of the heads in the district's revolution against The Capitol.

Hoffman is said to have almost wrapped on the Part 1 shoot and had 7 days to go for Part 2. While it is unknown how director Francis Lawrence will work around his absence, the films will reportedly keep their scheduled release dates of Nov. 21, 2014 and Nov. 20, 2015, respectively.

In the wake of the actor's death Lionsgate issued a statement mourning the actor and remembering his contributions to the Hunger Games franchise.

"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.”

Jennifer Lawrence, author Suzanne Collins, and producers Nina Jacobson and Jon Kilik also released a statement remembering Hoffman.

“Words cannot convey the devastating loss we are all feeling right now. Philip was a wonderful person and an exceptional talent, and our hearts are breaking. Our deepest thoughts and condolences go out to his family.”

Hoffman was found dead of an apparent drug overdose in his New York City apartment Sunday. He is survived by his longtime partner, Mimi, and three children.

[Entertainment Weekly]