Hollywood is mourning the loss of Gene Hackman, the two-time Oscar-winning actor known for his commanding screen presence, and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, a classical pianist. The couple, along with their dog, were found dead in their home outside Santa Fe, New Mexico, on Wednesday afternoon, according to the Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office.
Authorities are treating the deaths as “suspicious enough in nature” to warrant a thorough investigation, according to a search warrant filed in New Mexico. However, the sheriff’s office stated that foul play is not suspected at this time, and the exact cause of death remains undetermined.
Investigation Underway
A search warrant obtained by CBS News revealed that Hackman and Arakawa had been deceased for some time before being discovered by deputies. Their bodies were found in separate rooms—Hackman in a mudroom and Arakawa in a bathroom near a space heater. Nearby, an open prescription bottle and pills were found on the counter.
“This is an active and ongoing investigation by the Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office,” officials confirmed in a statement.
Family and Hollywood React
Hackman’s daughters and granddaughter released a heartfelt statement confirming the news of his passing:
“He was loved and admired by millions around the world for his brilliant acting career, but to us, he was always just Dad and Grandpa. We will miss him sorely and are devastated by the loss.”
— Elizabeth, Annie, and Leslie Hackman
Tributes from Hollywood have poured in, honoring Hackman’s legendary career, which spanned over five decades and left an indelible mark on the film industry.
A Storied Career of Unforgettable Roles
Hackman, often described as one of the greatest actors of his generation, was celebrated for his ability to bring depth, intensity, and authenticity to every role. His career-defining performances included:
- Popeye Doyle in The French Connection (1971) – earning him his first Academy Award
- Harry Caul in The Conversation (1974) – a psychological thriller masterpiece
- Little Bill Daggett in Unforgiven (1992) – earning him his second Oscar
- Lex Luthor in Superman (1978) and its sequels – bringing charm and menace to the iconic villain
- Coach Norman Dale in Hoosiers (1986) – an unforgettable sports drama
Hackman excelled across a wide range of genres, from crime dramas (Bonnie and Clyde, Mississippi Burning), to thrillers (No Way Out), to comedies (The Royal Tenenbaums, Get Shorty).
A Private Life Away from Hollywood
After retiring from acting in 2004, Hackman chose a quiet life in New Mexico, focusing on writing historical fiction and staying out of the spotlight. His last on-screen role was in Welcome to Mooseport (2004), and though Hollywood often called for his return, he remained firm in his decision to step away from the industry.
A Lasting Legacy
Rough-hewn yet magnetic, Hackman was a movie star without the traditional Hollywood persona, bringing grit, intelligence, and emotional depth to his characters. His longtime friend, stage director Ulu Grosbard, once described him as:
“A complex guy. Very intelligent. A generosity of spirit. Socially charming. A lot going on in him. A certain sense of being tormented with past ghosts and things. That’s part of what he brings to his work.” (Vanity Fair, 2004)
Gene Hackman’s passing marks the end of an era for cinema, but his legacy will continue through the unforgettable performances and timeless films that shaped generations.