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

Clint Eastwood, Tom Hanks and more are paying tribute to Oscar-winning actor Gene Hackman, "one of the true giants of the screen."

Celebrity tributes are pouring in for Gene Hackman after the revered 95-year-old actor and his wife Betsy Arakawa were found dead in their Santa Fe, New Mexico, home.

Gene Hackman's death left other Hollywood figures, including Bill Murray, Francis Ford Coppola and Dustin Hoffman shocked and saddened.

The Yellowstone star posted an old interview to his social media in which he said, “Gene was the best actor that I’ve ever worked with.”

The deaths of legendary actor Gene Hackman, his wife Betsy and their dog is now being described as “suspicious” by authorities.

And he was really difficult, we can say it now, but he was a tough guy. Older, great actors do not give young directors much of a chance. They’re really rough on them,” said Bill Murray.