Santa Fe, New Mexico – Gene Hackman, a legendary Hollywood actor who has won two Oscars, was found dead at his residence on Wednesday, February 26, 2025. Hackman’s wife, Betsy Arakawa, and their pet dogs were also found in the same condition. The departure of this couple surprised the entertainment world, especially given Hackman’s great contribution in the film industry for more than six decades.
According to Sheriff Santa Fe County, Adan Mendoza, the couple was found dead in their home located in the Old Sunset Trail, Hyde Park, Santa Fe, New Mexico. Although the investigation is still ongoing, the police stated that there was no indication of crime in this case. “This is an ongoing investigation, but at this time we do not see a criminal element,” said Mendoza, as reported by the BBC on Thursday, February 27, 2025.
Gene Hackman, who is 95 years old, is known as one of the most influential actors in Hollywood history. While Betsy Arakawa, a 64 -year -old classic pianist, has been Hackman’s life companion since they were married in 1991. The couple was last seen together in public at lunch at Santa FE last year, where they looked healthy and cheerful.
Gemilang Gene Hackman’s Career Journey
Born with the name Eugene Allen Hackman on January 30, 1930 in San Bernardino, California, Hackman started his life with an unusual adventure. At the age of 16, he lied about his age to join the US Marine Corps. After serving in China, Hawaii and Japan, Hackman decided to leave the military in 1951.
After returning to civilian life, Hackman had tried a variety of jobs, ranging from selling women’s shoes to driving a truck. However, his desire to become an actor never extinguished. “I think I want to be an actor since the age of 10 years, maybe even younger than that,” Hackman recalled in an interview.
In the 1960s, Hackman began his acting career by appearing in the production of off-growth theater and small roles on television. However, a big breakthrough came in the 1970s when he played a detective Jimmy “Popeye” Doyle in the film The French Connection. This role not only brought him to win the Oscar for the best actor, but also confirmed him as one of the best actors in Hollywood.
Hackman continues to prove his talent by playing a role in various iconic films, including The Poseidon Adventure (1972), Superman (as Lex Luthor), Unforgiven (1992), and The Royal Tenenbaums (2001). In his long career, he has starred in more than 100 films and won various prestigious awards, including two Oscars, four Golden Globe, and two BAFTA.
Personal life and inheritance left behind
Hackman married twice in his life. His first marriage to Faye Maltese in 1956 was blessed with three children before they divorced in 1986. Five years later, Hackman married Betsy Arakawa, who became his loyal companion until the end of his life.
After retiring from the acting world in 2004, Hackman chose to live a calmer life at Santa Fe, New Mexico. Although rarely appears in public, his inheritance in the world of film remains alive through his eternal works.
The departure of Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa left deep sorrow for family, friends, and fans around the world. Although their cause of death has not been revealed, for sure, the world has lost one of the biggest actors of all time.
“Gene Hackman is a legend that is not only entertaining, but also inspires many generations,” said a fan on social media. “His work will always be remembered.”