Legendary Hollywood actor Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, were found deceased in their New Mexico home, along with their dog, according to the Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office. Hackman was 95 years old.
Cause of Death Under Investigation
Authorities responded to a welfare check at the couple’s residence on Wednesday afternoon, after a concerned neighbor contacted authorities. Upon arrival, officers discovered Hackman, Arakawa, and their dog unresponsive.
While an official cause of death has yet to be determined, the Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that foul play is not suspected. The medical examiner is currently investigating, with reports expected in four to six weeks.
Gene Hackman’s Legendary Hollywood Career
Hackman, known for his powerful performances and ability to portray complex characters, left an indelible mark on Hollywood. His career spanned decades, with two Academy Award wins and multiple nominations.
Some of his most iconic roles include:
- 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)
- The Conversation (1974), Mississippi Burning (1988), The Firm (1993), and Crimson Tide (1995)
Tributes Pour in for Gene Hackman
Hollywood figures and fans took to social media to honor Hackman’s legacy.
Francis Ford Coppola, director of The Conversation, called him “a great artist”, saying his loss was both mournful and celebratory.
George Takei praised Hackman’s versatility, calling him “one of the true giants of the screen” who could play anyone with depth and authenticity.
at the 60th Annual Golden Globe Awards in Beverly Hills, California, in 2003
A Quiet Retirement in New Mexico
Despite his fame, Hackman retired from acting in 2004 after his final film, Welcome to Mooseport. He later focused on writing novels and living a private life in Santa Fe with Arakawa.
The couple had been married since 1991. Hackman had three children from his previous marriage to Fay Maltese, who passed away in 2017.
His passing marks the end of an era in Hollywood, but his incredible performances will continue to inspire future generations.
