Hollywood icon Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, were found deceased in their Santa Fe, New Mexico, home in February. While initial speculation surrounded their deaths, authorities have since confirmed that Hackman passed away due to natural causes.
Hackman, a two-time Academy Award-winning actor, had lived a quiet life away from the limelight with his wife of over three decades. Recently, close friends have shed light on the actor’s final years, revealing his growing struggles with aging and health concerns.
A caretaker discovered the couple’s bodies during a welfare check, prompting immediate emergency response. Hackman’s daughters, Elizabeth and Leslie, along with his granddaughter, Annie, released a heartfelt statement mourning their loss:
“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.”
Authorities conducted carbon monoxide and toxicology tests, ruling out external causes. Santa Fe County Sheriff Adan Mendoza confirmed no signs of foul play, with reports stating that Hackman succumbed to coronary artery disease, while his wife passed from hantavirus pulmonary syndrome.
Friends say that Hackman, despite maintaining an active lifestyle—practicing yoga and Pilates—had become increasingly troubled by aging. His reluctance to watch his own films and concerns about his appearance reflected his struggles. Longtime friend Stuart Ashman noted that while Hackman remained physically active, he was deeply affected by the natural changes of aging.
Born in 1930 in San Bernardino, California, Hackman’s journey from a troubled youth to one of Hollywood’s most respected actors was marked by resilience. His career took off with Bonnie & Clyde (1967), followed by an Oscar-winning performance in The French Connection (1971). He continued to deliver iconic performances in Unforgiven and The Royal Tenenbaums, cementing his legacy.
In his later years, Hackman gradually withdrew from public life, retiring from acting in 2004. He and Betsy lived a peaceful life in Santa Fe, focusing on hobbies and personal pursuits. Despite the difficulties of aging, their relationship remained strong, and their passing close together serves as a poignant testament to their deep bond.
Hollywood and fans around the world continue to mourn the loss of a legend. Though Gene Hackman may be gone, his extraordinary contributions to cinema and his enduring legacy will never be forgotten.
