At the 2025 Oscars, held on March 2, Morgan Freeman took to the stage to pay tribute to the late actor Gene Hackman, whose recent passing sent ripples of sadness through the Hollywood community. Freeman, renowned for his own performances and deep respect for his peers, began his tribute with heartfelt words, emphasizing the immense loss incurred.
“Well, this week our community lost a giant, and I lost a dear friend,” Freeman announced, as the audience mourned alongside him. Adding depth to his words, he reflected on their shared professional history, stating, “I had the pleasure of working alongside Gene on two films, Unforgiven and Under Suspicion.” Freeman emphasized Hackman's generosity as a performer, noting, “Like everyone who ever shared a scene with him, I learned he was a generous performer and a man whose gifts elevated everyone’s work.”
Hackman's illustrious career was marked by numerous accolades, including two Oscar wins for his performances in The French Connection and Unforgiven. Beyond the awards, Freeman pointed to Hackman’s universal impact on film lovers worldwide. “Gene always said, ‘I don’t think about legacy. I just hope people remembered me as someone who tried to do good work,’” Freeman recounted, adding, “So I think I speak for us all when I say, ‘Gene, you’ll be remembered for this, and for so much more. Rest in peace, my friend.’”
The poignant tribute came just days after Hackman, his wife Betsy Arakawa, and their dog were discovered deceased at their home in Santa Fe, New Mexico, on February 26. The circumstances surrounding their deaths are currently under investigation, with officials referring to the situation as “suspicious enough” to warrant thorough examination. While there was no immediate evidence of foul play, authorities did find prescription drugs at the scene.
Gene Hackman, 95, has left behind three children from his first marriage to Faye Maltese: son Christopher and daughters Elizabeth and Leslie. He later married Betsy Arakawa, who was 64 years old at the time of their death. The couple had built a life together away from the Hollywood spotlight, with Hackman stepping back from acting to explore writing and live quietly.
Freeman, who has long admired Hackman’s work, had shared with audiences how the actor's on-screen talent captivated him even before they collaborated professionally. “He’s a movie actor, boy, he’s an actor and every time I go see him I just marvel at him,” Freeman once remarked about Hackman. Their collaborations, particularly Unforgiven, showcased Hackman's prowess, earning him his second Academy Award for playing the villain who dramatically affected Freeman’s character.
The old friends’ chemistry was evident on-screen, prompting them to seek out follow-up projects. Their partnership continued with the 2000 thriller Under Suspicion. Freeman called this collaboration one of the highlights of his career, expressing through social media, “One of the personal highlights of my career was bringing the French Film Gardé à Vue to life with the incredibly gifted Gene Hackman.”
Freeman’s tender tribute not only honored Hackman's cinematic legacy but also emphasized the personal bond they shared. “Working with Gene was wonderful,” he shared, noting the respect he held for his late friend and colleague.
Following Freeman’s emotional speech, the Academy’s annual in memoriam segment recognized not just Hackman, but also other Hollywood luminaries who passed away, including Teri Garr and James Earl Jones. Hackman was the last featured name, underscoring his significant impact on the industry.
Hackman's legacy transcends his awards and nominations—he is remembered as one of Hollywood’s greatest talents by audiences and fellow actors alike. His filmography boasts two Academy Awards and multiple nominations, solidifying his place as one of the most respected performers of his generation. The film community collectively mourns not only the loss of his talent but also the departure of the man who often conveyed humility and kindness throughout his illustrious career.
His family released a statement mountains emotional: “He was loved and admired by millions around the world for his brilliant acting career, but to us he was always just Dad and Grandpa. We will miss him sorely and are devastated by the loss.” The community reflects on his legacy, reinforcing the sentiments expressed by Freeman; Hackman’s work will forever remain ingrained within film history, and his presence will be sorely missed among those who knew him and those who admired him from afar.