Gene Hackman, the intense character actor who won two Oscars during his more than 60-year career, has died alongside his wife, pianist Betsy Arakawa, at their home.
Authorities from the Santa Fe County Sheriff's Office reported the tragic discovery on Thursday afternoon, where the deceased couple was found at around 1:45 p.m., alongside their dog. The sheriff's office stated, "Foul play is not suspected as a factor in those deaths at this time, but the exact cause of death has not been determined." An active investigation is still underway.
Hackman, who was 95 years old, had built a formidable acting career beginning in the early 1960s. He earned his first Oscar nomination for his breakout role as the brother of bank robber Clyde Barrow in the 1967 classic 'Bonnie and Clyde'. His prominent role as Popeye Doyle, the rumpled New York detective ripping through drug dealers, solidified his fame and earned him his first Academy Award for Best Actor.
Throughout his illustrious career, Hackman garnered another Oscar for Best Supporting Actor for his role as the brutal Sheriff 'Little Bill' Daggett in Clint Eastwood's 1992 western 'Unforgiven'. Hackman's versatility shined across numerous genres, portraying memorable characters from superhero villains to troubled detectives.
Born to humble beginnings, the former Marine was known for his raspy voice and drew upon personal experiences to craft his characters with depth. He retired from acting over two decades ago, expressing sentiments about finding current roles too 'grandfatherly', with his last major performance being in the 2004 comedy 'Welcome to Mooseport'.
Hackman was married twice, first to Faye Maltese with whom he had three children, and later to Arakawa, whom he married in 1991. The couple often shared their life peacefully at their New Mexico residence.
The news of their deaths sent ripples of mourning throughout the entertainment community. Hackman's legacy as one of the defining figures of American cinema will forever be cherished, as well as Arakawa's contributions to the arts. Friends and fans alike are coming to grips with their unexpected loss.
Many are reflecting on Hackman’s incredible ability to invoke feelings of menace and warmth through his roles. His characters ranged widely—a small-town basketball coach, the arch-nemesis Lex Luthor, to poignant figures caught up in historical events.
His performances across decades left indelible marks not only within Hollywood but also within the hearts of cinema-goers worldwide. The sheriff's office is still working to provide clarity around the specifics of their passing, and as the investigation proceeds, they have acknowledged the couple’s impact on the local community.
Neighbors voiced their sorrow upon hearing the news, expressing how both Hackman and Arakawa lived quiet yet impactful lives. They often kept to themselves, but made lasting impressions through their warm demeanor and artistic endeavors.
Gene Hackman’s legacy transcends his roles, reflecting the real-world contributions he and his wife made to art and culture. Their deaths signal the end of an era, leaving behind treasured memories and noteworthy works for generations to enjoy.