Morgan Freeman, one of Hollywood’s most revered actors, has had a remarkable journey at the Academy Awards. Known for his commanding screen presence and unmistakable voice, Freeman has received five Oscar nominations, winning once for Best Supporting Actor in Million Dollar Baby (2004).
Morgan Freeman’s Academy Award Nominations and Win
2005 – Best Supporting Actor (Winner)
Million Dollar Baby (2004) – Eddie "Scrap-Iron" Dupris
Freeman won his first and only Oscar for his role in Million Dollar Baby, portraying a former boxer and gym caretaker. His performance brought emotional depth to the film, earning him widespread acclaim.
1988 – Best Supporting Actor (Nominee)
Street Smart (1987) – Fast Black
Freeman’s breakthrough role as a volatile pimp in Street Smart showcased his ability to play complex characters.
1990 – Best Actor (Nominee)
Driving Miss Daisy (1989) – Hoke Colburn
His portrayal of Hoke Colburn, a Black chauffeur to an elderly Jewish woman, earned him his first Best Actor nomination. The role won him a Golden Globe Award.
1995 – Best Actor (Nominee)
The Shawshank Redemption (1994) – Ellis “Red” Redding
Playing the wise and charismatic Red, Freeman delivered one of the most iconic performances in cinema history. Many critics believe he should have won the Oscar for this role.
2010 – Best Actor (Nominee)
Invictus (2009) – Nelson Mandela
Freeman’s portrayal of Nelson Mandela in Invictus was widely praised. His ability to embody the former South African leader led to his fifth Oscar nomination.
Other Major Honors and Lifetime Achievements
Beyond the Oscars, Freeman has been honored with numerous prestigious awards:
- Golden Globe Award – Driving Miss Daisy (1990)
- Screen Actors Guild Award – Million Dollar Baby (2005)
- AFI Life Achievement Award (2011)
- Cecil B. DeMille Award (2012)
- Screen Actors Guild Life Achievement Award (2018)
- Kennedy Center Honors (2008)
Morgan Freeman at the 2025 Oscars
At the 97th Academy Awards on March 2, 2025, Freeman took part in a special “In Memoriam” tribute, honoring Hollywood legends such as Gene Hackman, Gena Rowlands, and James Earl Jones. His presence reminded audiences of his enduring impact on the film industry.