Morgan Freeman recently delivered a heartfelt tribute to his friend Gene Hackman during the 97th Academy Awards.

Freeman, who had the privilege of working alongside Hackman on two films, Unforgiven (1992) and Under Suspicion (2000), took to the stage to honor the late actor. Hackman, who passed away alongside his wife Betsy Arakawa at their Santa Fe, New Mexico home, was remembered as a generous performer whose talent elevated everyone around him.

In his emotional speech, Freeman reflected on Hackman’s legacy, quoting the actor’s humble words, “I don’t think about legacy. I just hope people remember me as someone who tried to do good work.” Freeman continued, “Gene, you will be remembered for that, and so much more.”

Hackman’s family, including his daughters Elizabeth and Leslie, released a statement expressing their grief, calling him not only a brilliant actor but also a cherished father and grandfather. The investigation into their deaths remains ongoing, though no signs of foul play have been found.