Morgan Freeman, the esteemed actor, took the stage to commence the show’s in memoriam segment with a heartfelt tribute to his lifelong friend, Gene Hackman. Hackman, a legendary figure in the entertainment industry, passed away last week in his Santa Fe, New Mexico home.
The 2025 Oscars ceremony serves as a fitting platform to remember Hackman’s remarkable contributions to cinema. Freeman’s tribute, a testament to their deep friendship, left a profound impact on the audience.
The circumstances surrounding Hackman’s passing remain a subject of investigation. A caretaker’s call to 911 alerted deputies to a body in the couple’s home, leading to a welfare check. Upon arrival, the first responders found Hackman, his wife Betsy Arakawa, and one of their dogs unresponsive. Tragically, all three individuals were pronounced dead at the scene.
The Santa Fe Police Department is investigating the death, which they have classified as suspicious due to various factors. However, an official cause of death has yet to be determined.
Morgan Freeman pays tribute to Gene Hackman before the #Oscars In Memoriam segment pic.twitter.com/lcQVzfXvvo
— The Hollywood Reporter (@THR) March 3, 2025
“This week, our community lost a giant, and I lost a dear friend: Gene Hackman,” Freeman began. “I had the privilege of working alongside Gene on two films: Unforgiven and Under Suspicion. Like anyone who shared a scene with him, I discovered that he was a generous performer and a man whose talents elevated everyone’s work.”
He continued, “He received two Oscars, but more importantly, he captured the hearts of film enthusiasts worldwide. Gene always said, ‘I don’t dwell on legacy; I simply hope people remember me as someone who strived to do good work.’ So, I believe I speak for us all when I say, ‘Gene, you’ll be remembered for that and for so much more.’ Rest in peace, my friend.”
The in memoriam segment featured tributes to other Hollywood greats who passed away in the past year, including David Lynch and Dame Maggie Smith.
Other notable names remembered included Donald Sutherland, Shelley Duvall, Gena Rowlings, James Earl Jones, Dick Pope, Jeff Baena, Bob Newhart, Kris Kristofferson, M Emmet Walsh, Robert Towne, Joan Plowright, and Teri Garr.
Notably absent from Sunday night’s tribute were Michelle Trachtenberg, who passed away earlier this week, as well as Tony Todd, Shannon Doherty, Chance Perdomo, and Olivia Hussey.
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