Meryl Streep, Jennifer Hudson pay tribute to departed at Oscars 2015

LOS ANGELES: The 87th Academy awards paid a tribute to the stars who passed away last year with Hollywood legend Meryl Streep introducing the 'In Memoriam' section with a touching speech.

Streep, a three time Oscar-winner, took to stage to talk about the losses that the film industry suffered in the death of Robin Williams, Richard Attenborough, James Garner, Lauren Becall, Paul Marsh, Ruby Dee, Ann B Davis, Malik Bendjelloul, Maya Angelou, James Rebhorn and Elizabeth Peña among many others.

"Through their work they shared a piece of their soul... There will never be anyone like them. So, we will miss them as we miss an old friend," Streep said while introducing the section.

Later Jennifer Hudson took to stage for an emotionally-charged performance on "I can't let go'.

"This is for all the people who shared their talents and lives with us. We are forever changed," said Hudson, a previous Oscar-winner, at the beginning of her ballad.