Most people know Gene Hackman as an Oscar-winning actor, famous for movies like The French Connection, Bonnie and Clyde, and Superman: The Movie. But what many don’t realize is that he also had a serious passion for writing.
Hackman passed away on Wednesday at 95, along with his wife, pianist Betsy Arakawa, and their dog. The Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the news to Reuters on Thursday, and an investigation into the cause of death is still ongoing.
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While fans reflect on his legendary acting career, there’s another side of him well worth remembering — his work as an author.
He co-authored novels that brought history to life
Hackman wasn’t just a Hollywood star; he also wrote and co-wrote five books, covering everything from historical fiction to Wild West adventures.
His first novel, Wake of the Perdido Star, even got a glowing Kirkus review, which praised its “satisfying action and rousing derring-do.”
His first novel took readers on a high-seas adventure
Hackman teamed up with archaeologist and park ranger Daniel Lenihan to co-write Wake of the Perdido Star.
It’s a coming-of-age story about a young boy navigating life on the open sea, packed with rich details that draw from Lenihan’s expertise in shipwrecks and diving.
He explored themes of injustice in America
His novel Justice for None takes a deep dive into racial injustice and the struggles faced by Black men and military veterans in America.
He brought the Civil War to life with gripping storytelling
Set during the Civil War, Escape from Andersonville follows a Union captain and his men after they’re taken prisoner.
The captain eventually escapes, but he can’t bring himself to leave his soldiers behind — so he makes a daring plan to return and rescue them.
His solo novels tackled revenge and justice
Hackman didn’t just co-write books — he also wrote two solo novels, both published by Simon & Schuster.
Payback at Morning Peak is a Western revenge tale about a teenager whose family is brutally murdered, forcing him on a relentless pursuit of justice.
Then there’s Pursuit, a police thriller where a by-the-book cop finds himself tangled in a cold case that turns out to be more personal than he ever expected.
His books reflected his love for adventure and drama
Even in his writing, Hackman had a knack for high-stakes storytelling.
His books, much like his movies, were packed with action, drama, and tension — proving that his talent wasn’t just limited to the screen.
Whether it was historical fiction or gritty thrillers, he had a way of pulling readers in and keeping them hooked.
Gene Hackman’s books in order
1- Wake of the Perdido Star with Daniel Lenihan (1999)
2- Justice for None with Daniel Lenihan (2004)
3- Escape from Andersonville with Daniel Lenihan (2008)
4- Payback at Morning Peak (2011)
5- Pursuit (2013)
Hackman had a legendary acting career
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.
Hackman was one of the greatest actors of his generation, with over 100 acting credits. He won two Oscars for his roles in The French Connection and Unforgiven.
Investigation into his death is still ongoing
Hackman was found dead in his mudroom, his wife on the bathroom floor, and his dog in the closet. Authorities have not yet identified the exact cause of death.
Police said the front door was open, and there were no signs of forced entry. The Santa Fe Sheriff’s Department stated there was no evidence of foul play, but the investigation is ongoing.
