Mimi O'Donnell, children and family of Philip Seymour Hoffman devastated by actor's sudden death

Philip Seymore Hoffman Wikimedia Commons

The family of late actor Philip Seymour Hoffman has released a statement hours after his shocking death.

The statement says: "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."

Hoffman, who recently starred in the Hunger Games Catching Fire, was found dead in his Manhattan apartment by a friend on Feb, 2, 2014.

The actor reportedly died of a drug overdose in his Greenwich Village apartment and was found with a needle in his arm. His body was found at around 11:30 a.m. this morning.

Celebrities reacted on Twitter following the shocking news.

The actor previously admitted to struggling with drug addiction and had checked himself into rehab last year for heroin use.

Comedian Jim Carrey tweeted: "Dear Philip, a beautiful beautiful soul. For the most sensitive among us the noise can be too much. Bless your heart. ;^{"

Minnie Driver stated: "Oh boy what is HAPPENING? All these beautiful people leaving too early. What a sweet soul, Phil Hoffman was, what a sad, sad day."

Elijah Wood stated that he was "heartbroken and shocked. What a true loss. rest in peace, Philip Seymour Hoffman."

The 46-year-old is survived by his long-term partner costume designer Mimi O'Donnell and their young children - son Cooper Alexander, 10, and daughters Tallulah, 7, and Willa, 5.

Hoffman had not been married.

We pray for the actor's family and children at this tragic time.

Newsletter Stay up to date with Christian Today
News
A three day journey by canoe to receive life-saving treatment from Mercy Ships
A three day journey by canoe to receive life-saving treatment from Mercy Ships

Most Madagascans cannot afford surgery, even on the rare occasions its available.

Drought insurance helps Nepal families survive food crisis
Drought insurance helps Nepal families survive food crisis

An innovative drought insurance scheme has provided emergency support to hundreds of vulnerable farming families in western Nepal

Britain has become ‘dangerously complacent’ over family breakdown
Britain has become ‘dangerously complacent’ over family breakdown

Dr Harry Benson, Research Director at the Marriage Foundation, said the latest official data on families and households pointed to a “profound social change” that had received little public attention despite long-term consequences for family stability and child wellbeing.

Church of Scotland issues slavery apology
Church of Scotland issues slavery apology

The Church of Scotland General Assembly said it was “grieved beyond telling” for the suffering inflicted.