Oscar winner Gene Hackman and wife found dead in Santa Fe home

Two-time Academy Award winner Gene Hackman and his spouse, classical pianist Betsy Arakawa, were discovered deceased in their residence located in Santa Fe Summit, Santa Fe, New Mexico, on Wednesday afternoon.

Santa Fe County Sheriff Adan Mendoza reported that both individuals, along with their dog, were found without any signs of foul play. The sheriff did not disclose the cause of death or provide details regarding the time of their passing.

Hackman and Arakawa had been united in marriage since 1991. The actor celebrated his 95th birthday in late January, although a public appearance last year raised concerns among fans regarding his frail condition.

Over a remarkable four-decade career in Hollywood, Hackman established an impressive filmography. He quietly retired from acting in the late 2000s, having indicated in a 2004 interview with Larry King that he had no upcoming projects.

Throughout his career, Hackman appeared in more than 70 films and received numerous accolades, including the prestigious Oscar for Best Actor for his performance in The French Connection and Best Supporting Actor for his role as Little Bill Daggett in Clint Eastwood’s Unforgiven.

In 2009, Hackman revealed that his decision to step back from the Hollywood spotlight was prompted by a stress test that raised concerns among his medical team.

“The straw that broke the camel’s back was actually a stress test that I took in New York,” he shared with Empire. “The doctor advised me that my heart wasn’t in the kind of shape that I should be putting it under any stress.”

After retiring, Hackman shifted his focus to less demanding pursuits such as painting, fishing, and writing.

Regarding writing, he remarked: “It’s very relaxing for me. I don’t picture myself as a great writer, but I really enjoy the process.”

He further noted, “It’s one you can kind of manage, because you’re sitting there by yourself, as opposed to having 90 people sitting around waiting for you to entertain them.”
Gene Hackman is survived by his three children: Christopher, Elizabeth Jean, and Leslie Anne, from his late ex-wife, Faye Maltese.

We extend our heartfelt condolences and prayers to the family of the iconic Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa.