During the 97th Academy Awards on March 2, 2025, the movie fraternity paid homage to the late legend Gene Hackman, who died peacefully at the age of 95 on February 26, 2025. Morgan Freeman read out the eulogy in the “In Memory” segment of the ceremony on behalf of Hackman.
Freeman, who had co-starred with Hackman in films such as “Unforgiven” and “Under Suspicion,” gave an emotional tribute. He remembered Hackman as the giant who influenced the films and their friendship: “We lost a giant in our midst, and I lost a friend.” Freeman talked about Hackman’s ability to assist the individuals he was working with in doing their jobs better and attributed to him his two Oscars. He concluded by referencing Hackman’s own contemplation of legacy, quoting that Hackman would be remembered for a lot more good things than whatever he had done.
Those present at the Dolby Theatre stood and applauded, a stunning demonstration of respect and admiration by the industry for Hackman. The tribute was made up of a montage of highlights for Hackman and live-to-film music of “Crimson Tide,” in which Hackman acted with a commanding presence.
Hackman’s acting career was one of distinction spanning more than five decades: Detective Jimmy “Popeye” Doyle in “The French Connection,” for which he received an Oscar for Best Actor in 1972; and a second Oscar, this time for Best Supporting Actor in 1993, for Little Bill Daggett in Clint Eastwood’s “Unforgiven.” Hackman’s versatility is established in characters from our very own smooth-spoken con man in “The Sting” to the troubled patriarch in “The Royal Tenenbaums.”
With Hackman, the “in memoriam” role called out other legends who died this past year, including director David Lynch and actress Maggie Smith. Lynch, whose influential and unsettling films “Blue Velvet” and “Mulholland Drive” defined the work of an entire generation of filmmakers, died in January at age 78. Smith, whose work in “The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie” and as Professor McGonagall in the “Harry Potter” films made her a legend, died in September at age 89.
The ceremony was also honoring other great actors and actresses, such as Donald Sutherland, Shelley Duvall, and James Earl Jones, and their work in the art of filmmaking. The segment was a touching reminder of the lasting influence that such artists leave on the world.
The death of Gene Hackman was mourned most around the world of movies. Hackman’s film son, Ben Stiller of “The Royal Tenenbaums,” gave Hackman nothing but good words and affection, labeling him “one of the most real, authentic, charming, and sincere actors.” Stiller had nothing but good things to say about Hackman’s career, citing that he was also one of his own “Mount Rushmore” actors.
The deaths of Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, are being investigated. The two died in their home in New Mexico, and authorities found the scene “suspicious.” Preliminary autopsy results indicated no external signs of trauma, and toxicology reports have yet to come back. Their deaths have provoked an outpouring of condolence and admiration for Hackman’s giant contribution to the movie universe.
Because the film industry is still growing, performances by artists such as Gene Hackman provide a motivational lead. His passion for the work and creativity that he showed in his performances have left a unique imprint in the industry to ensure that he will be remembered lovingly for many generations to come.
