Gene Hackman, the late actor known for his iconic roles in films like “The French Connection” and “Unforgiven,” was honored during Sunday’s Oscars ceremony with a tribute by his co-star Morgan Freeman. The speech praised Hackman as a generous performer who elevated everyone’s work.
Hackman, 95, passed away alongside his wife Betsy Arakawa, 65, at their Santa Fe, N.M., residence. Their bodies were discovered by neighborhood security on Wednesday afternoon.
Throughout his career, Hackman won two Academy Awards for Best Actor and received three more nominations. His notable performances include Jimmy “Popeye” Doyle in “The French Connection,” Sheriff Little Bill Daggett in “Unforgiven,” and a lead role in “Mississippi Burning.” Tributes from colleagues like Clint Eastwood remembered him as an intense and instinctive actor who was also a dear friend.
The investigation into Hackman’s death is ongoing, with sheriff Adam Mendoza stating that both he and his wife tested negative for carbon monoxide poisoning. Full results from autopsy and toxicology reports are pending.
Source: https://variety.com/2025/film/news/gene-hackman-oscars-tribute-morgan-freeman-1236323994