- Elia Kazan: Freeman has said that Kazan's films, such as "On the Waterfront" and "East of Eden," taught him how to use his voice and body to convey emotion.
- Sidney Poitier: Freeman has said that Poitier's films, such as "The Defiant Ones" and "In the Heat of the Night," inspired him to become an actor.
- James Earl Jones: Freeman has said that Jones's voice and acting style have always impressed and inspired him.
- Harry Belafonte: Freeman has said that Belafonte's music and activism have always inspired him.