Freeman, whose friendship with Hackman spans decades, called the late actor a “giant” of the film industry in his homage.

The Oscars included a somber elegy for Gene Hackman and a joyful tribute to Quincy Jones. Morgan Freeman paid tribute to his “Unforgiven” co-star Hackman, calling him a “giant” and “dear friend."

Freeman and Hackman, who was found dead last week at the age of 95, appeared together in the 1992 western “Unforgiven.”