Hollywood icon Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, were found dead in their New Mexico home, according to the Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office. The 95-year-old actor, known for his legendary career spanning over five decades, was discovered alongside his wife and their dog.
Authorities Investigate Cause of Death
Police responded to a welfare check at the couple’s home on Wednesday afternoon after a concerned neighbor requested assistance. Upon arrival, officers found Hackman, Arakawa, and their pet deceased.
While no foul play is suspected, the medical examiner’s office will conduct an autopsy to determine the official cause of death, which could take four to six weeks.
Gene Hackman’s Legendary Hollywood Career
Hackman was a two-time Academy Award winner, celebrated for portraying complex and authoritative characters. His versatility allowed him to excel in both action-packed thrillers and emotionally gripping dramas.
Most Iconic Gene Hackman Movies:
✔ Popeye Doyle in The French Connection (1971) – Won Best Actor Oscar
✔ Little Bill Daggett in Unforgiven (1992) – Won Best Supporting Actor Oscar
✔ Lex Luthor in Superman (1978) and its sequels
✔ Norman Dale in Hoosiers (1986)
✔ Royal Tenenbaum in The Royal Tenenbaums (2001)
✔ Mississippi Burning (1988), The Firm (1993), Crimson Tide (1995)
Hollywood Pays Tribute to Gene Hackman
As news of Hackman’s passing spread, tributes from Hollywood legends, fellow actors, and fans flooded social media.
🎥 Director Francis Ford Coppola (The Conversation) called Hackman “a true artist”, mourning his loss while celebrating his extraordinary contributions to film.
🎭 Actor George Takei described him as “one of the greatest screen actors”, noting that Hackman could “bring any character to life with depth and authenticity”.
A Private Life in Retirement
Despite his immense success, Hackman stepped away from Hollywood in 2004, following his last film, Welcome to Mooseport. He later focused on writing novels and enjoyed a quiet life in Santa Fe, New Mexico, with his wife.
The couple had been married since 1991. Hackman leaves behind three children from his previous marriage to Fay Maltese, who passed away in 2017.
Gene Hackman’s Legacy Lives On
Gene Hackman’s influence on cinema is unparalleled, with performances that continue to inspire actors, directors, and movie lovers worldwide. His incredible body of work ensures that he will be remembered as one of the greatest actors of all time.
