Morgan Freeman pays tribute to Gene Hackman at the 97th Academy Awards

Oscar-winning actor Morgan Freeman, introducing the In Memoriam segment at the 97th Academy Awards on Sunday, paid his respects to Gene Hackman, praising his late co-star as a "giant" of Hollywood — and "a dear friend."

"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. "He received two Oscars, but, more importantly, he won the hearts of film lovers all over the world."

"Gene always said: 'I don't think about legacy. I just hope people remember me as someone who tried to do good work.' So I think I speak for us all when I say: Gene, you'll be remembered for that — and for so much more."

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"Rest in peace, my friend," he said in conclusion.

Hackman and Freeman appeared together in the dramas "Unforgiven" and "Under Suspicion."

Hackman won the best actor Oscar for 1971's "The French Connection" and the best supporting actor prize for Clint Eastwood's 1992 "Unforgiven." Freeman won the best supporting actor trophy for Eastwood's 2004 "Million Dollar Baby."

Hackman, 95, and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, 65, a classical pianist, were found dead last week in their home in Sante Fe, New Mexico. The deaths are under investigation after a search warrant described them as “suspicious."

Hackman’s family said in a statement that he was “loved and admired by millions around the world for his brilliant acting career, but to us he was always just Dad and Grandpa. We will miss him sorely and are devastated by the loss.”

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The In Memoriam video segment recognized the deaths of Hollywood luminaries such as Teri Garr, Donald Sutherland, Shelley Duvall, David Lynch and James Earl Jones.

Hackman was the final Hollywood legend featured in the video.