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Morgan Freeman Honors Gene Hackman at Oscars Following Actor's Mysterious Death

The 95-year-old Oscar-winning actor and his wife were found dead in their New Mexico home, prompting an ongoing investigation.

HOLLYWOOD, CALIFORNIA - MARCH 02: Morgan Freeman speaks onstage during the 97th Annual Oscars at Dolby Theatre on March 02, 2025 in Hollywood, California.  (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images)
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Family friends of Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa reflect on their memories, revealing Hackman's declining health.
REUTERS/Andy Clark/File Photo

Overview

  • Gene Hackman, a two-time Oscar winner, was honored by Morgan Freeman during the 97th Academy Awards in a heartfelt tribute to his life and career.
  • Hackman, 95, and his wife Betsy Arakawa, 65, were found deceased in their Santa Fe home on February 26, along with one of their dogs, under circumstances authorities have called 'suspicious.'
  • Initial investigations ruled out carbon monoxide poisoning and external trauma, with police seizing medications, cellphones, and other items to aid in determining the cause of death.
  • Hackman's pacemaker recorded its last activity on February 17, suggesting the couple had been deceased for over a week before being discovered.
  • Hollywood figures, including Ben Stiller and Francis Ford Coppola, have paid tribute to Hackman, reflecting on his iconic roles in films like 'The French Connection,' 'Unforgiven,' and 'The Royal Tenenbaums.'