Gene Hackman, the legendary two-time Academy Award-winning actor, has passed away at the age of 95. The acclaimed star's lifeless body, alongside his wife, pianist Betsy Arakawa, was discovered at their home in Santa Fe, New Mexico, on Wednesday, February 26, 2025. Their untimely deaths have sent shockwaves through the film industry and among fans worldwide.
County Sheriff Adan Mendoza confirmed the tragic news to the Santa Fe New Mexican. Both Hackman and Arakawa were found without visible signs of trauma, and no foul play is currently suspected. Authorities have launched an investigation, indicating the deaths are being treated as suspicious. An autopsy is expected to reveal more about the circumstances surrounding their passing.
Born Eugene Allen Hackman on January 30, 1930, Hackman had left indelible marks on the cinematic world with performances spanning decades. His career took off with his breakout role as the antihero Clyde Barrow, opposite Faye Dunaway, in the 1967 classic Bonnie and Clyde. This film earned him his first Academy Award nomination, paving the way for his illustrious career.
Over the years, Hackman solidified his status as one of Hollywood's greats, winning two Oscars – first for Best Actor for his portrayal of the tenacious detective Jimmy "Popeye" Doyle in 1971's The French Connection, and later for Best Supporting Actor as Sheriff Bill Daggett in Clint Eastwood’s Unforgiven (1992). His impressive résumé includes iconic films such as Superman: The Movie, where he brought to life the cunning Lex Luthor, and The Royal Tenenbaums, which showcased his versatility as he played patriarch Royal Tenenbaum.
Hackman’s impact reached beyond acting alone; he pursued writing after his retirement from acting, with his final novel, the police thriller Pursuit, published in 2013. Reflecting on his career choices, Hackman often expressed gratitude for the opportunities he had throughout his life and remained dedicated to his craft until his retirement, which stemmed from health concerns, as he revealed during interviews.
He was married to Betsy Arakawa since 1991, and together they led relatively private lives away from the Hollywood spotlight. Reports from the scene indicate the couple was discovered along with their dog; authorities noted the presence of one dead dog and two living ones but found no immediate signs of trauma. The couple, it seems, was simply living their final moments together, surrounded by their beloved pets.
Following the news of Hackman's passing, tributes have poured in from colleagues and admirers. Many shared their condolences and reflected on Hackman’s contributions to cinema. “The deaths are being treated as suspicious," confirmed Sheriff Mendoza, indicating to the public the dynamic nature of the investigation. While speculation surrounds the exact cause of his death, Hackman's legacy as one of the most respected characters on-screen remains unchallenged.
Known for his intelligent performances and powerful screen presence, Hackman inspired names across generations. A pivotal figure, he brought complexity and depth to his characters, creating memorable roles whether playing heroic figures or charismatic villains. His role as Lex Luthor is affectionately remembered as one of the series' most iconic portrayals, setting the bar for future portrayals of the character.
Fans and fellow actors agree: his unique ability to embody varied roles and evoke genuine emotion has left its mark. Interestingly, Hackman confessed earlier this year how both he and Dustin Hoffman were once labeled "least likely to succeed" by their acting peers during their developing careers. Seemingly, Hackman defied those predictions, eventually rising to the heights of Hollywood fame.
Gene Hackman is survived by three children from his first marriage to Faye Maltese: Christopher Allen, Elizabeth Jean, and Leslie Anne Hackman. Now, his family, fans, and friends must confront the loss of one of cinema’s most beloved icons as the world awaits clarity on the circumstances surrounding his and his wife’s passing.
While the story of Gene Hackman concludes here, his legacy endures through the films he graced and the hearts he touched. Between awards and accolades, he was not just another star—he was and remains, one of the greats.