How Will Hoffman's Death Affect 'Hunger Games'?

The sudden death of actor Philip Seymour Hoffman took the world by surprise as the 46-year-old actor had just been seen at Utah's Sundance Film Festival this past month, and was currently shooting the final installment of Lionsgate's The Hunger Games series.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, insiders at the studio revealed that Hoffman had one last pivotal scene to film in The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 2. However, the source adds that the film will still be completed and released as scheduled.

In the movie, Hoffman plays Plutarch Heavensbee, the Head Gamemaker responsible for creating and planning the 75th Hunger Games event. The character becomes a central figure in the violent revolution that makes up the bulk of the story for The Hunger Games: Mockingjay-- Part 1 and Part 2.

RELATED PICS: Remembering Philip Seymour Hoffman In Photos

"We're all extraordinarily sad," a Lionsgate executive tells THR. "But as it relates to production, it's going to have no impact. Obviously, we're going to have a couple of work-around issues but the movie will be creatively whole."

The Oscar-winning actor was found dead in his New York apartment on Sunday afternoon, Feb 2, from what is suspected to be a heroin overdose. Hoffman leaves behind his longtime partner, Mimi O'Donnell, and their three children.

RELATED PICS: New Mockingjay Poster!

"Philip Seymour Hoffman was a singular talent and one of the most gifted actors of our generation," Lionsgate said in a statement upon hearing of the actor's death. "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."