Gene Hackman Memorialized By Morgan Freeman In Oscar Tribute: “Rest In Peace, My Friend”
Two-time Oscar winner Gene Hackman, who was found dead last week with his wife in New Mexico, received a stirring tribute from friend and collaborator Morgan Freeman.
Standing onstage at the Dolby Theatre, Freeman imbued his tribute with sincerity and trademark gravitas. The remarks preceded the ceremony’s annual In Memoriam segment.
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“Well, this week our community lost a giant,” Freeman said, as an image of a moustache-wearing Hackman filled the screen. “And I lost a dear friend.”
Freeman appeared in two films alongside Hackman: Unforgiven and Under Suspicion. “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 won Oscars for his performances in The French Connection and Unforgiven. More important than awards, Freeman said, was his connection with global film audiences. “Gene always said, ‘I don’t think about legacy. I just hope people remember me as someone who tried to do good work,'” Freeman said. “So, I think 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 cause of Hackman’s death at age 95 and that of his wife and dog are still under investigation by authorities. Some prescription drugs were found in the couple’s home, and investigators are also looking at other potential causes.
Hackman stepped away from acting in the mid-2000s, spending time in his home in New Mexico and writing fiction. He had been in good health just prior to his death, according to press accounts.
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