Days after giving an impassioned remembrance of late actor Gene Hackman this past Sunday at the Academy Awards, it was announced Thursday morning that Oscar-winning actor Morgan Freeman will serve as grand marshal of the Pennzoil 400 NASCAR Cup Series race on Sunday, March 16, at Las Vegas Motor Speedway.
Known for a booming baritone voice that is as versatile as the actor, producer, director and narrator himself, Freeman is looking forward to attending the race.
“I’m absolutely thrilled to be chosen as the grand marshal for this NASCAR race,” Freeman said in a LVMS media release . “It’s a true honor to be part of such an incredible tradition, and I can’t wait to see the energy, passion, and excitement that fills the track. Let’s rev up those engines and make this race unforgettable!”
There is no slowing down or retirement for the 87-year-old Memphis, TN native, who most recently appeared in a recent 10-episode run as Edwin Mullins in the “Lioness” TV series.
Freeman worked with the late Hackman on two movies: Unforgiven and Under Suspicion and was a lifelong friend of the late actor, whose body and the body of his wife were found last week in their New Mexico home.
“This week, our community lost a giant and I lost a dear friend, Gene Hackman,” Freeman said during Sunday’s Academy Awards . “Like everyone who’s ever shared a scene with him, I learned he was a generous performer and a man whose gifts elevated everyone’s works.
“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. Rest in peace, my friend.’”
Freeman has had some very memorable roles in his illustrious career, including his 2004 Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor for Million Dollar Baby . In addition to being on-screen, Freeman is also in high demand as a voiceover artist for countless documentaries and films.
His appearance at Las Vegas Motor Speedway will be nothing new for Freeman, as he has narrated a number of documentaries about NASCAR.
“His involvement with NASCAR extends beyond just a passing interest, as he has played an active role in bringing the sport’s rich history and thrilling stories to a broader audience,” the media release said. “Known for his unmistakable voice, he has narrated several documentaries about NASCAR, capturing the sport’s drama and passion while highlighting the legendary figures and memorable moments that have defined it.
“His deep connection to the racing world has helped bridge the gap between Hollywood and the NASCAR community, giving fans a unique perspective on the sport’s enduring appeal.”
Freeman will join a long list of distinguished individuals that have served as grand marshal at LVMS events including actors Mark Wahlberg and Cole Hauser, comedian Tim Allen, legendary car builder Carroll Shelby, socialite Kim Kardashian, country music group Rascal Flatts, late broadcaster Brent Musburger, legendary musician John Fogerty and UFC President Dana White.
