Who Will Likely Inherit Gene Hackman’s $80M Fortune, Considering His 3 Kids Allegedly Didn’t Check on Him for Weeks?

The distinguished actor consistently adopted a cautious stance regarding his personal life throughout his career, especially concerning his children. The pressures of celebrity status inevitably impacted their relationship.

In light of the recent passings of Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa, inquiries have emerged regarding his estate. Although the couple did not have children together, he was a father to two daughters and a son from a previous marriage.

The circumstances surrounding their deaths have added a layer of tragedy. On February 26, 2025, Gene, Arakawa, and one of their dogs were discovered deceased in their residence in Santa Fe Summit, leaving the 911 caller in a state of shock.

Authorities later confirmed the cause of death. Chief Medical Examiner Dr. Heather Jarrell reported that Arakawa succumbed to Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome, a disease primarily transmitted by rodents. Her autopsy deemed the death natural, with estimates suggesting it occurred around February 11.

In the weeks leading up to their deaths, Arakawa appeared to be the primary caregiver for her husband, as noted by Dr. Michael Baden, who remarked, “It seems she was truly taking excellent care of him.”

Meanwhile, Dr. Jarrell, who performed the autopsy on the veteran actor, discovered that he suffered from “severe heart disease, including multiple surgical interventions on the heart, indications of previous heart attacks, and significant kidney damage due to chronic high blood pressure.”

Her examination also indicated “advanced Alzheimer’s disease” along with vascular damage in the brain, associated with chronic high blood pressure.
On February 18, Gene’s pacemaker detected an “abnormal rhythm of atrial fibrillation,” prompting Dr. Jarrell to deduce that he likely passed away on that date, approximately one week after Arakawa’s death.

The circumstances surrounding his final days remain somewhat unclear. When inquired about any communication from the actor prior to his death, Santa Fe County Sheriff Adan Mendoza indicated that there was no evidence to suggest he utilized any technology to connect with others.

Speculation regarding Gene’s last moments persisted, particularly as his daughters, Elizabeth and Leslie Hackman, were seen in public just a day after receiving the news of his passing.

They were observed leaving a diner in Burbank, California, after arriving together in a gray SUV. Despite the somber situation, they appeared composed and even shared a smile as they exited.

In an interview, Leslie revealed that the family was still awaiting official confirmation regarding their father’s cause of death and was attempting to come to terms with their loss. Leslie Hackman and Elizabeth Hackman were photographed leaving Denny’s on February 27, 2025, in Burbank, California. | Source: Getty Images

She remarked, “There was no indication that there was any problem,” emphasizing that her father had been in “very good physical condition” and had not undergone any significant surgeries in recent months.

Leslie highlighted that Gene remained active well into his later years, stating, “He enjoyed Pilates and yoga, and he continued to practice several times a week. So he was in good health.”

Nevertheless, she acknowledged that his passing was “not terribly shocking because he was 95.” Residing in California, Leslie noted that it had been some time since she last saw or heard from her father, despite their close relationship. “We were close. I hadn’t spoken to him in a couple of months, but everything was normal and everything was good,” she shared.

Gene’s relationship with his children was reportedly complex. In addition to his daughters, Elizabeth and Leslie, he was also the father of a son, Christopher Hackman. He welcomed all three children.
Gene Hackman is seen with his family in Sun Valley, Idaho, on January 1, 1974. | Source: Getty Images

His career began to flourish in 1967 when he secured a supporting role in “Bonnie & Clyde,” but the pressures of Hollywood began to affect his responsibilities as a father.

“Although I had a family, I accepted roles that would keep us apart for three or four months at a time,” Gene shared in a 1989 interview. “The allure of money and fame was overwhelming for the young man I was. I struggled to cope with it.”

An undated photograph captures Leslie, Gene, and Elizabeth Hackman at a celebrity baseball game in Hollywood, California. | Source: Getty Images

During a 2004 appearance on “Larry King Live,” the Academy Award-winning actor reflected on the initial hurdles of his career. When questioned about his transition from a struggling actor to a Hollywood icon, he candidly admitted, “I didn’t manage it very well, to be honest.”

He elaborated that while he was able to support his family financially, his attention was often diverted by the temptations of the entertainment industry. Despite the personal costs, his unwavering commitment to his craft earned him respect from his colleagues.

Christopher, Leslie, Elizabeth, and Gene Hackman at the Presidential Premiere of “Superman” on December 10, 1978, in Washington, D.C. | Source: Getty Images

In a New York Times opinion piece, Ben Stiller commented on Hackman’s performance in “The Royal Tenenbaums,” highlighting his genuine portrayal in each scene while retaining a sense of humanity. Stiller also drew parallels to “The Poseidon Adventure,” indicating that Hackman’s motivation for participating in the project extended beyond mere financial incentives.

Betsy Arakawa and Gene Hackman at the PCC Celebrity Art Show on September 11, 1991, in Beverly Hills, California. | Source: Getty Images
Gene Hackman was recognized not only for his performances on screen but also for his commitment to maintaining the privacy of his personal life, especially regarding his children. In a 1989 interview with film critic John C. Tibbetts, the esteemed actor expressed that audiences resonated with him because he represented the essence of an everyday man. He remarked, “I prefer to keep my personal life relatively ordinary, allowing my art to provide an escape and a chance to soar.”

On December 10, 1978, Gene, along with his children Elizabeth and Leslie Hackman, attended the screening of “Superman” in Washington, D.C. | Source: Getty Images

More than ten years later, Gene shared a rare insight into his experiences as a father, acknowledging that his children significantly influenced a pivotal career choice. After obtaining the rights to “The Silence of the Lambs” with the intention of directing, he ultimately opted not to proceed. He reflected, “I have no regrets about that decision. My children helped me realize that it was not the right path for me.”

On March 24, 1979, Elizabeth and Gene Hackman were spotted on Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills, California. | Source: Getty Images

Gene also recognized the challenges his success posed for his children, stating, “I was not always present during their upbringing, and living in California meant that my achievements were a constant presence in their lives.”

His demanding career not only affected his relationship with his children but also created a notable distance between him and his son, Christopher. He admitted that their connection had diminished over time, revealing that they had lost touch.

On March 13, 1991, Leslie and Gene Hackman attended a screening of “Class Action” in Century City, California. | Source: Getty Images

As a father of three who divorced his first wife in 1986, Gene believed that his frequent absences due to filming contributed to the strain in his relationship with Christopher. He felt that being away for long stretches hindered his ability to offer the support and guidance his son required.