Veteran actor Morgan Freeman is set to honour his late friend and co-star Gene Hackman during the 97th Academy Awards.
The 87-year-old was a lifelong pal of ‘The French Connection’ star, 95 – who was found dead alongside his wife Betsy Arakawa, 61, in their Santa Fe, New Mexico home on 26 February – and he will deliver a tribute to the late star on Sunday (02.03.25) during the 'In Memoriam' segment, commemorating Gene’s illustrious career and their collaborations in ‘Unforgiven’ and ‘Under Suspicion’.
The 97th Academy Awards, hosted by Conan O'Brien, 61, will take place at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood and will honour the best films of 2024, with ‘Emilia Pérez’ leading the nominations with 13 nods, including Best Picture and Best Actress for Karla Sofía Gascón.
It was revealed by the Daily Mail Morgan’s tribute to Gene is anticipated to be a poignant moment, reflecting on a remarkable career and a profound friendship.
Gene and his spouse Betsy’s bodies exhibited signs of mummification, suggesting they had been dead for some time.
A German Shepherd was also found dead, while two other dogs were discovered alive on the property.
Authorities are investigating the deaths, with initial reports indicating no signs of foul play.
Data from Hackman's pacemaker suggests his last recorded heartbeat was on 17 February.
Toxicology reports are pending, but carbon monoxide poisoning has been ruled out.
Gene, a two-time Oscar winner, was renowned for roles in films such as ‘Superman’, and ‘The Royal Tenenbaums’.
He retired from acting in 2004, choosing a quieter life in New Mexico.
Tributes have poured in from Hollywood greats.
Clint Eastwood, 94, who directed and starred alongside Hackman in ‘Unforgiven’, described him as a “dear friend” and an “excellent actor’.
He added: “There was never a false note with Gene.”
Morga has also already expressed his admiration, stating: “Gene was a true giant of our industry.”
Nathan Lane, 69, who co-starred with Gene in ‘The Birdcage’, recalled: “Gene was a masterful actor and a generous scene partner.”
Gene’s daughters from a previous marriage, Elizabeth, 63, and Leslie, 58, had reportedly not been in contact with their father for months due to his reclusive nature.
