Movie fans the 97th Academy Awards just wrapped up and it was an emotional night full of memorable moments. One of the most touching parts of the ceremony was when the legendary Morgan Freeman took the stage. He wasn't there to pick up an award this time but to deliver a beautiful tribute. And it was for none other than the late Gene Hackman another Hollywood giant.
Morgan Freeman's Moving Words for Gene Hackman: A Farewell to a "Giant" and "Dear Friend" at the Oscars
Freeman introduced the In Memoriam segment a part of the Oscars that always gets the tears flowing. But this year it felt extra poignant because he was there to specifically honor Gene Hackman. These two are not just colleagues they were friends and co-stars. Freeman called Hackman a "giant" of Hollywood and you could feel the genuine respect and warmth in his voice.
He shared some really kind words about Hackman. "Like everybody who has ever shared a scene with him I learned he was a generous performer whose gifts elevated everyone's work" Freeman said. It's always special to hear actors talk about each other especially legends like these two recognizing each other’s talents.
Freeman also mentioned Hackman's impressive Oscar wins. Two of them in fact Best Actor for "The French Connection" and Best Supporting Actor for Clint Eastwood's "Unforgiven". But Freeman emphasized something even more important than awards. He said Hackman "won the hearts of film lovers all over the world." That's the kind of legacy that truly lasts right?
He ended his tribute with a quote that really captured Hackman's spirit. "Gene always said: 'I don't think about legacy. I just hope people remember me as someone who tried to do good work.'" Freeman then added "So I think I speak for us all when I say: Gene you'll be remembered for that — and for so much more." It was a simple yet powerful goodbye to a true icon.
Remembering Hollywood's Lost Stars: The Oscars In Memoriam Segment Honors Hackman Lynch and More
The In Memoriam segment is always a moment to reflect and remember all the talented people the film world has lost. Besides Gene Hackman the Oscars also honored other luminaries. David Lynch who received an honorary Oscar a few years back and was known for films like "The Elephant Man" and "Blue Velvet" was recognized. Another legend Maggie Smith known to many younger fans as Professor McGonagall in the Harry Potter movies was also included. Smith won two Oscars herself throughout her long career.
Other notable names that appeared in the emotional montage included:
- Teri Garr
- Donald Sutherland
- Shelley Duvall
- James Earl Jones
It was a reminder of the incredible talent and artistry that makes up the world of cinema and a chance to appreciate the contributions of those we have lost.
Zoe Saldaña's Historic Win: Taking Home Best Supporting Actress for "Emilia Pérez"
While the night had its somber moments it was also a night of celebration. Zoe Saldaña had a big win taking home the Oscar for Best Supporting Actress for her role in "Emilia Pérez". This Spanish-language musical was a major contender this year and Saldaña's performance as Rita a lawyer who helps a drug cartel boss undergo gender-affirming surgery really resonated with audiences and critics.
Her character performs the standout song from the film "El Mal" which actually won Best Original Song at the Oscars too! In her acceptance speech Saldaña thanked the Academy for recognizing the "quiet heroism and the power in a woman like Rita." She also spoke about her grandmother who came to the US from the Dominican Republic in 1961 and how proud she would be to see her granddaughter win an Oscar for a role where she sang and spoke Spanish.
Saldaña’s win is historic marking her as only the second Latina to win Best Supporting Actress after Ariana DeBose. It was a powerful moment of representation and a testament to Saldaña's talent and hard work.
Sweeping Awards Season: Saldaña's Road to Oscar Gold After SAG BAFTA and Golden Globe Wins
Zoe Saldaña's Oscar win wasn't out of the blue. She has been on a roll this awards season picking up Best Supporting Actress prizes at pretty much every major award show leading up to the Oscars. She won the SAG Award the BAFTA and the Golden Globe all for "Emilia Pérez". These wins made her the clear frontrunner heading into the Academy Awards and she delivered. At the SAG Awards Saldaña spoke passionately about being part of a union that protects actors and allows them to be who they are. She emphasized the importance of telling thought-provoking and beautiful stories like "Emilia Pérez" that explore artistic freedom.
A Night of Remembrance and Celebration: The 2025 Oscars Highlights
The 97th Academy Awards were a blend of emotions. There was sadness as Morgan Freeman honored Gene Hackman and the In Memoriam segment remembered other film legends. But there was also joy and triumph as Zoe Saldaña made history with her Best Supporting Actress win. It was a night that celebrated both the legacy of Hollywood and the bright future of filmmaking. The Oscars always bring together the movie community to reflect appreciate and look ahead and the 2025 ceremony was no different.