We often hear tributes being given at award ceremonies, and this took place at the 97th Academy Awards.
Morgan Freeman put together a touching tribute to his friend and colleague, Gene Hackman in a very emotional speech. The award ceremony paid tribute to Hackman, who died along with his wife in their Santa Fe, New Mexico home. They were found on February 26.
According to details from the search warrant, investigators are treating the deaths as ‘suspicious enough’ so that they will open an investigation. They didn’t suspect foul play, because there were no signs of external trauma but nothing is being ruled out at this point.
Freeman and Hackman worked together on the 2000 movie, Under Suspicion. It was one of Hackman’s final roles before he retired from Hollywood.
Freeman began his speech: “This week, our community lost a giant. And I lost a dear friend, Gene Hackman. I had the pleasure of working alongside Gene on two films, 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.
“Gene always said, ‘I don’t think about legacy. I just hope people remember me as someone who tried to do good work.’
“I think I speak for us all when I say, ‘Gene, you will be remembered for that, and so much more.’ Rest in peace, my friend.”
Hackman’s daughters and a granddaughter have also released a statement following his death. They said: “It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our father, Gene Hackman, and his wife, Betsy.
“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.”
