Gene Hackman, the Oscar-winning legend, has passed away aged 95. Police confirmed he was found dead at his home in Santa Fe along with his wife, Betsy Arakawa, aged 63, and their dog.
Betsy was a classical pianist and businesswoman. Cops took 12 hours to identify their bodies, which were in an advanced state of decomposition, partially mummified. The cause of death hasn’t been revealed yet.
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Police confirm no foul play in the investigation
Santa Fe police said there’s no sign of foul play, but it hasn’t been totally ruled out. County Sheriff Adan Mendoza mentioned that their dog was also found dead inside the house. But as for when or how exactly they passed, the authorities didn’t say.
The bodies were found Wednesday afternoon, but police didn’t confirm they were Hackman and Arakawa until Thursday morning, according to KOB 4.
Was carbon monoxide poisoning the cause of Gene and Betsy’s death?
Since police largely ruled out foul play, Hackman’s daughter Elizabeth told TMZ she fears carbon monoxide poisoning could be to blame. But so far, there’s no evidence to support that.
TMZ also added that two other dogs in the Hackman house survived the mystery incident, but authorities haven’t shared any more details yet.
Authorities are awaiting search warrant approval
“All I can say is that we’re in the middle of a preliminary death investigation, waiting on approval of a search warrant,” Mendoza stated. He told TMZ his deputies have obtained a search warrant “in case” the investigation turns criminal.
The county’s top cop added that the couple could have “been victims of a double homicide, suicide, accidental death,” or simply died from “natural causes.” That’s all the police have shared so far.
Gene Hackman was a Hollywood legend
Hackman was a true icon in the film industry. People remember him best as Lex Luthor in Superman, Little Bill Daggett in Unforgiven, and Jimmy Doyle in The French Connection. His career was full of unforgettable roles.
He lived a private life after retirement
Unlike a lot of Hollywood stars, Hackman didn’t stay in the spotlight. In 2004, he officially stepped away from acting and left Los Angeles for a quieter life in New Mexico.
“I haven’t held a press conference to announce retirement, but yes, I’m not going to act any longer. I really don’t want to do it any longer,” he told the press at the time.
He had played over 100 roles before retiring, though there were rumors that stress played a part in his decision to quit.
His marriage to Betsy Arakawa spanned decades
Hackman and Betsy had been together since the mid-80s and tied the knot in 1991. But he made it clear that their relationship wasn’t the reason his first marriage ended.
“By the way, I did not leave my real-life wife for a younger woman. We just drifted apart. We lost sight of each other. When you work in this business, marriage takes a great deal of work and love,” he explained.
Gene Hackman’s most famous roles
Hackman spent over 40 years in Hollywood, taking on all kinds of roles — tough guys, villains, even some comedy. He played heroes, bad guys, and one unforgettable sports coach, keeping audiences hooked every time.
Here’s a list of notable Hackman films:
1961 — Mad Dog Coll (debut)
1967 — Bonnie and Clyde (Academy Award nomination, supporting actor)
1969 — The Gypsy Moths, Downhill Racer, I Never Sang for My Father (Academy nomination, supporting actor)
1971 — The French Connection (as Popeye Doyle, best actor Academy Award win)
1972 — The Poseidon Adventure
1978 — Superman (as Lex Luthor)
1986 — Hoosiers
1988 — Mississippi Burning (best actor Academy Award nomination)
1992 — Unforgiven (Academy Award win for supporting actor)
1993 — The Firm
1995 — Crimson Tide
1996 — The Birdcage
2000 — Under Suspicion, The Replacements
2001 — The Mexican, The Royal Tenenbaums
2003 — Runaway Jury
2004 — Welcome to Mooseport
Fans pay tribute to the legendary actor and his wife
Since the news broke, fans have been sharing their thoughts and memories on social media. “RIP Gene Hackman and his wife Betsy Arakawa found dead, marking the end of an era in cinema,” one person tweeted.
Another wrote, “Honoring the memory of Gene Hackman and his wife Betsy Arakawa. Their impact on cinema and music will not be forgotten.” Others called him one of the best actors of all time, saying he left behind an incredible legacy.
Rest easy, legend.
Last Updated on February 27, 2025 by Reem Haqqi
