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.