Morgan Freeman paid tribute to his “dear friend” Gene Hackman at the Oscars on Sunday, March 2. The annual ceremony, watched by millions worldwide, took a solemn turn during this emotional segment.
The 87-year-old actor introduced the Academy Awards’ In Memoriam segment by paying tribute to his Unforgiven co-star, who, along with wife Betsy Arakawa, was found dead at home last week. The news of Hackman’s passing had sent shockwaves through Hollywood just days before the prestigious awards ceremony.
Freeman remembered his pal as a “generous performer” who had “won the hearts of film lovers all over the world.” Their professional relationship spanned decades, with both actors being highly respected figures in the film industry.
“This week, our community lost a giant. And I lost a dear friend, Gene Hackman,” speaking on stage at Los Angeles’ Dolby Theater, he said. The Dolby Theater, which has hosted the Academy Awards since 2002, fell completely silent during Freeman‘s heartfelt words.
“I had the pleasure of working alongside Gene on two films, Unforgiven and Under Suspicion; and like everyone who ever shared a scene with him, I learned he was a generous performer and a man who’s gift elevated everyone’s work.” Unforgiven, released in 1992, won four Academy Awards including Best Picture and Best Director for Clint Eastwood.
“He received two Oscars but, more importantly, he won the hearts of film lovers all over the world.” Hackman’s Oscar wins came for The French Connection (1971) and Unforgiven (1992), cementing his legacy as one of Hollywood’s finest actors over a career spanning more than six decades.
“Gene always said, ‘I don’t think about legacy, I just hope people remember me as someone who tried to do good work’ so I think I speak for us all when I say, ‘Gene you will be remembered for that, and for so much more. Rest in peace my friend.’ ” The audience responded with a standing ovation, many visibly moved by Freeman‘s sincere tribute.
A montage of those from the film world who have passed away over the last year then played, beginning with Dame Maggie Smith, and also recognizing the likes of Bob Newhart, Kris Kristofferson, Shelley Duvall, James Earl Jones, M. Emmet Walsh, Teri Garr, Joan Plowright, John Amos, Bill Cobbs, Donald Sutherland, plus a number of producers, directors, and others working behind the scenes, including David Lynch. The Academy’s In Memoriam segment is traditionally one of the most poignant moments during the ceremony.
Footage of Hackman closed out the montage. This placement highlighted the significant impact Hackman had made on the film industry throughout his illustrious career that included more than 100 film and television credits.
The tribute came during a particularly emotional Oscars ceremony, which featured several nods to cinema legends who had recently passed. Industry insiders noted that Freeman’s personal connection to Hackman made the moment especially powerful, with many in the audience seen wiping away tears.
Hackman, born in 1930, had retired from acting in 2004 after a remarkable career that established him as one of the most versatile actors of his generation. His performances in films like The French Connection, Mississippi Burning, Hoosiers, and The Royal Tenenbaums are widely considered among the finest examples of screen acting.
Freeman and Hackman’s professional relationship was well-respected in Hollywood circles, with directors often commenting on their natural chemistry and mutual respect. Their scenes together in Unforgiven are considered by many critics to be among the film’s most powerful moments.
Following the ceremony, numerous actors and filmmakers shared their own memories of Hackman, with many echoing Freeman’s sentiments about his generosity as a performer and his commitment to his craft. Social media filled with tributes highlighting favorite performances and personal encounters with the legendary actor.
The Academy’s decision to have Freeman deliver the tribute was particularly appropriate given their history together and Freeman’s own respected position within the film community. His dignified delivery captured the gravity of the loss while celebrating Hackman’s extraordinary contributions to cinema.
