Movies

Morgan Freeman’s Heartfelt Tribute to Gene Hackman Shocks Oscars 2025 Audience

BBG News

During the “In Memoriam” segment at the 2025 Oscars on Sunday, Morgan Freeman paid an emotional tribute to Gene Hackman, who had passed away just a few days prior at the age of 95.

Speaking with heartfelt admiration as I stood before you all, I, an ardent admirer and fortunate collaborator, had the privilege of sharing the screen with my esteemed friend and double Oscar-winning colleague, Hackman, in Under Suspicion and Unforgiven. Truly, he was a marvel to work alongside.

At their luxurious Santa Fe mansion worth $3.3 million, the partially mummified remains of Oscar-winning actor Hackman and his wife Betsy Arakawa (age 64) were discovered on Wednesday. Scattered pills were found in their bathroom, but the reasons behind their deaths still remain undetermined.

This week, I’m mourning the loss of both a titan in our community and a cherished friend – Gene Hackman. It was an honor to collaborate with him on two remarkable films, ‘Unforgiven’ and ‘Under Suspicion’.

Just as anyone who worked alongside him will attest, he was an incredibly generous actor, his talent enriching every production. A man who selflessly boosted the quality of everyone’s work, not just with two Oscars, but by capturing the affection of film enthusiasts worldwide.

Gene often expressed that he doesn’t focus on creating a legacy; instead, he simply wishes to be remembered as an individual who consistently strived to produce quality work with good intentions.

I believe I can express our shared feelings by saying, “Gene, your memory will live on, not just for that remarkable thing, but for so many other reasons too. Farewell, dear friend.

In the iconic 1992 movie, Freeman and Gene collaborated, with Freeman receiving his second Academy Award posthumously for his outstanding performance.

Eight years had passed, and I found myself reuniting with my long-time collaborator for our 2000 thriller, “Under Suspicion.” It was a project close to my heart, marking one of his last films before he decided to retire from Hollywood in 2004.

Additionally, David Lynch, Maggie Smith, Donald Sutherland, Shelley Duvall, Gena Rowlings, James Earl Jones, Dick Pope, Jeff Baena, Bob Newhart, Kris Kristofferson, M Emmet Walsh, Robert Towne, Joan Plowright, and Teri Garr were also bestowed with recognition.

Despite Michelle Trachtenberg, who tragically passed away at age 39 following a liver transplant last week, being absent from the segment, there was widespread anger on social media.

Reports indicate that the bodies of an actor and his spouse showed signs of bloating on their faces and mummification in their limbs, accompanied by pills nearby. Regrettably, one of their three German Shepherds was discovered dead as well, while the remaining two were seen wandering around the property.

Based on the search warrant issued by an official, it appears that the deaths of the two departed individuals were deemed suspicious enough to necessitate a comprehensive search and detailed investigation.

Last Friday, authorities in Santa Fe suggested that information from Gene’s pacemaker pointed towards his last active moment being on February 17th. This finding leads investigators to infer that this might be the day he passed away.

Pending further toxicology results, the medical examiner ascertained that neither individual showed signs of carbon monoxide poisoning. The local sheriff’s department currently considers it unlikely that a crime occurred.

For nearly two decades, the actor who gained fame in “The French Connection” and boasted an estimated net worth of around $80 million, has kept a low profile, shying away from the limelight. After bowing out of the entertainment industry in 2004, he bid farewell to Hollywood and exchanged the glitz of Los Angeles for a tranquil existence in New Mexico, which had been his home until his passing.

In a chilling interview with CNN back in 2004, the deceased actor admitted that he harbored fear about ending his life because he desired to serve as a provider for his loved ones.

In my commitment to personal wellness, I shared that sentiment with the media outlet. I don’t harbor many apprehensions, but like most people, I do have the ordinary fear of mortality.

It seems that thought often crosses our minds, particularly as we reach certain life stages. My primary concern is ensuring the well-being of my wife and family. Beyond that, I don’t harbor many fears.

In a prior relationship, the man who played Superman had three adult children: Christopher Allen (age 65), Elizabeth Jean (age 63), and Leslie Anne (age 58).

Based on a search warrant issued by an official, it appears that the deaths of the two individuals were suspicious enough to necessitate a comprehensive search and detailed investigation.

Last Friday, Santa Fe authorities stated that the latest activity registered on Gene’s pacemaker was on February 17, which has prompted investigators to suspect that this could have been the day he passed away.

Pending further toxicology results, the medical examiner has verified that neither individual showed signs of carbon monoxide poisoning. The local Sheriff’s Department currently holds no suspicion of foul play being involved.

For about two decades, the star known for “The French Connection,” who was worth around $80 million, stayed out of the public eye. After departing from the entertainment industry in 2004, he chose to abandon Hollywood and its glamour, instead opting for a tranquil life in New Mexico, where he resided until his death.

In a chilling interview with CNN in 2004, the sadly departed actor admitted that he harbored fear of losing his life, as he yearned to serve as a source of support for his family.

He shared that he focuses on self-care, saying, “I make an effort to look after myself.” He added, “I may not have many specific fears, but like most people, I do worry about mortality.

As I navigate through life, it’s undeniable that thoughts of securing the future for my loved ones, particularly my spouse and family, become increasingly important. Beyond that, I find myself relatively free from apprehensions.

In a past relationship, the man who portrayed Superman was blessed with three children: Christopher Allen (aged 65), Elizabeth Jean (aged 63), and Leslie Anne (aged 58).

At the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, the 97th Academy Awards will be celebrating the top movies from 2024, with a glamorous event filled with A-list stars.

61-year-old comedian Conan O’Brien will be stepping into the role of Oscar host for the first time, humorously commenting that he accepted the position just to receive an invitation.

2021’s awards show features a particularly unpredictable lineup across several prominent categories such as Best Picture and most of the acting nominations.

This year, Emilia Pérez is at the forefront of nominations, boasting a total of 13, including nods for Best Picture, Actress (Karla Sofía Gascón), Supporting Actress (Zoe Saldaña), Director (Jacques Audiard), Adapted Screenplay, and Original Song.

The main character, a transformed former Mexican drug lord (now a transgender woman), feigns her demise to start anew as a beneficial figure, while Saldana portrays a lawyer with questionable morals who assists in creating her new identity. This version maintains the essence of the original but is more accessible and engaging for readers.

As a die-hard enthusiast, I can’t contain my excitement as “The Brutalist” soared to the runner-up spot with an impressive 10 nominations! This masterpiece was recognized in several categories: Best Picture, Director (a well-deserved nod for Brady Corbet), Actor (the talented Adrien Brody), Supporting Actors (Guy Pearce and Felicity Jones), and Original Screenplay. The recognition it received is a testament to its brilliance!

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2025-03-03 06:22

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