Hollywood is mourning the loss of Oscar-winning actor Gene Hackman, who was found dead on Wednesday at the age of 95. The Santa Fe County Sheriff's Office confirmed his death occurred at his home in New Mexico, where he lived with his wife, Betsy Arakawa, who was also found dead alongside him, as well as their dog. While no immediate cause of death has been revealed, officials have stated they do not suspect foul play, though the police described the scene as 'suspicious' during the execution of their search warrant.
Hackman’s remarkable career was highlighted by his performances in classics such as "The French Connection," which earned him his first Academy Award, and "Unforgiven," which garnered him his second Oscar. He was also nominated for his roles in notable films like "Bonnie and Clyde," "I Never Sang for My Father," and "Mississippi Burning." Known for his portrayal of the villain Lex Luthor opposite Christopher Reeve's Superman, Hackman left an indelible mark on Hollywood.
Following the news of his passing, tributes poured in from many of his co-stars and directors, reflecting the deep impact he had on the film industry and his colleagues. Clint Eastwood, who directed and starred alongside Hackman in "Unforgiven," expressed his admiration, stating, "There was no finer actor than Gene. Intense and instinctive. Never a false note. He was also a dear friend whom I will miss very much," according to USA TODAY.
Francis Ford Coppola, who worked with Hackman on the 1974 film "The Conversation," shared his thoughts on Instagram, noting, "The loss of a great artist is always cause for both mourning and celebration. Gene Hackman was a great actor, inspiring and magnificent in his work and complexity. I mourn his loss, and celebrate his existence and contribution." This sentiment was echoed by many, as his peers reflected on both their personal and professional experiences with him.
Academy Award-winning actor Morgan Freeman shared heartfelt thoughts on social media, reminiscing about working with Hackman on projects such as "Under Suspicion" and "Unforgiven." Freeman described the experience as "one of the personal highlights of my career" and expressed his sorrow, saying, "Rest in peace, my friend."
Valerie Perrine, who starred opposite Hackman as Lex Luthor's girlfriend Eve Teschmacher, fondly referred to him as "a genius" and one of the greatest to grace the silver screen. Nathan Lane, who starred alongside him in "The Birdcage," shared his admiration after reflecting on their time together. "Getting to watch him up close it was easy to see why he was one of our greatest. You could never catch him acting. Simple and true, thoughtful and soulful, with just a hint of danger. He was as brilliant in comedy as he was in drama and thankfully his film legacy will live on forever."
Hank Azaria, who also co-starred in "The Birdcage," remarked on the honor of working with Hackman and sent "all my love to his family & friends." Notably, Gwyneth Paltrow, Hackman’s co-star from "The Royal Tenenbaums," captured their bond by sharing their photo on Instagram with broken heart emojis. The warmth of their camaraderie was palpable.
Bill Murray, who worked with Hackman on "The Royal Tenenbaums," described him as "a tough nut" and rehashed anecdotes of the actor’s demanding nature on set. He emphasized the skill Hackman displayed during filming, recounting moments when he shot scenes perfectly, stating, "I was watching it going, 'No wonder this guy wants to throttle people.'"
James Woods, who starred alongside Hackman in "Night Moves," also shared personal reflections, mentioning how Hackman spent meaningful time with his family, showing genuine interest. Woods noted, "He was without equal, and as a man, he was one of a kind." Dustin Hoffman, Hackman’s classmate and co-star from "Runaway Jury," highlighted Hackman’s talent, comparing him to Marlon Brando and asserting he was "powerful, subtle, brilliant. A giant among actors. I miss him already."
Tom Hanks took to Instagram, writing, "There has never been a 'Gene Hackman Type.' There has only been Gene Hackman." Actress Viola Davis also expressed her admiration by noting, "Loved you in everything." This shared appreciation for Hackman’s unique talents highlights the legacy he leaves behind as one of Hollywood’s most respected actors.
Many other actors and directors chimed in to share their condolences and fond memories, such as Josh Brolin, who felt "crushed" by the news, and George Takei, who referred to him as "one of the true giants of the screen." Brolin poignantly remarked, "Not many who beat to their own drums like he did. Rest in Peace." Meanwhile, director Edgar Wright addressed Hackman’s greatness, praising him as "the greatest."
The news of Hackman's death continues to ripple through the industry, prompting those who appreciated his work to share sentiments on social media, including tributes from notable figures like Antonio Banderas and Cary Elwes, who described their admiration for Hackman’s impact on their careers. Elwes noted, "We have lost a true legend. To observe his remarkable facility and humanity was something to behold."
Michael Rosenbaum, best known for portraying Lex Luthor on the television series "Smallville," also honored Hackman, calling him "one of the all-time greatest actors ever." The widespread affection and respect Hackman garnered from colleagues speaks volumes about his character and the influence he had on actors of generations past and present.
Gene Hackman’s contributions to the world of cinema are immeasurable. His legacy as an actor who could embody any role and connect deeply with audiences will undoubtedly endure. The heartfelt tributes from his colleagues reflect the tremendous impact he made not just through his performances, but as a person who engaged meaningfully with those around him.