Book excerpt: Philip Seymour Hoffman (1967-2014) was an American film, television and stage actor, film producer, and film and stage director, best known for his memorable supporting roles in independent films. Considered one of the best actors of his generation, he died of a drug overdose at age 46 after years of sobriety. He won the Academy Award for Best Actor for his titular role in Capote (2005), and Best Supporting nominations for Doubt (2008) and The Master (2012). This biography covers his life and career and provides an appendix listing his film, television and stage appearances.