While it may seem like inconsiderate timing worrying about the future of The Hunger Games in the wake of Philip Seymour Hoffman's death, clearly Lionsgate has been fielding a ton of questions about it. Hoffman played Gamesmaker Plutarch Heavensbee in 'Catching Fire', and was set to return for an even bigger role in 'Mockingjay' parts 1 & 2, and now the studio has issued a statement saying the productions will move forward as planned.
Lionsgate says Hoffman's work was "substantially complete on 'The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 1' and he had seven days remaining to shoot on 'The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 2.' This tragedy will not affect the films.” It's unclear how they plan to make up for those last few days of shooting Hoffman had left. The Plutarch role is crucial to the final chapters of the series, as evidenced by the conclusion of 'Catching Fire'.
The studio also added...
“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 Hunger Games: Mockingjay part 1 is still expected to open on November 21st 2014, followed by part 2 on November 20th 2015.
