The 97th Academy Awards’ ‘In Memoriam’ segment left audiences deeply moved as it honored film industry figures who passed away in the past year. This tribute, a staple of the Oscars, recognized legendary actors, directors, and other key contributors to cinema.

Among those remembered were Dame Maggie Smith, David Lynch, Teri Garr, James Earl Jones, and the recently deceased two-time Oscar winner Gene Hackman. The loss of so many icons hit hard, with viewers expressing their grief online.

“Beautiful and heartbreaking #InMemoriam segment at the #Oscars … So many greats, legends and icons that passed,” one person wrote. Another added, “That was a very moving in memoriam at the Oscars. So many legends dying.”

Morgan Freeman introduced the segment with a tribute to Gene Hackman, calling him “a giant” in the industry. Reflecting on their time together, Freeman shared, “Like everyone who ever shared a scene with him, I learned he was a generous performer.” He concluded, “Gene, you’ll be remembered for that, and for so much more.”

The segment, one of the night’s most emotional moments, reminded viewers of the lasting impact these legends had on cinema.