Oscars 2025: Veteran actor Morgan Freeman to honour late actor Gene Hackman

Morgan Freeman and Gene Hackman, two cinematic greats, shared an unforgettable on-screen camaraderie in Clint Eastwood’s Unforgiven, a film that earned Hackman his second Academy Award.

Hollywood legend Morgan Freeman is set to pay a special tribute to his dear friend and fellow veteran actor Gene Hackman at the 97th Academy Awards.

According to a family member who spoke to TMZ, Freeman will take the stage during the In Memoriam segment to honor Hackman’s incredible legacy in cinema. With a friendship spanning decades, Freeman’s tribute promises to be a heartfelt celebration of Hackman’s unforgettable contributions to the silver screen.

Morgan Freeman and Gene Hackman, two cinematic greats, shared an unforgettable on-screen camaraderie in Clint Eastwood’s Unforgiven, a film that earned Hackman his second Academy Award.

Though Freeman did not receive a nomination for his role in the film, he later won an Oscar for Million Dollar Baby in 2005. Their collaboration continued in 2000 with Under Suspicion, where they once again showcased their remarkable chemistry.

As reported by TMZ, despite the tribute planned for Hackman at the 97th Academy Awards, his family will not be attending the ceremony. This follows the tragic passing of Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, who were found deceased in their Santa Fe home on February 28, 2025.

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The heartbreaking loss of Gene Hackman, his wife Betsy Arakawa, and their cherished dog has left many questions unanswered. Santa Fe authorities recently suggested that Hackman’s pacemaker may have malfunctioned on February 17, possibly leading to his passing on that day. While the exact cause remains unclear, the medical examiner has ruled out carbon monoxide poisoning. According to Irish Star, toxicology reports are still awaited, as investigators continue to piece together the events surrounding their tragic demise.

The upcoming Oscars tribute will serve as a heartfelt farewell to one of Hollywood’s most revered actors, honoring Hackman’s extraordinary contributions to cinema.