Oscar-winning actor Gene Hackman, 95, and his wife Betsy Arakawa, 63, were discovered deceased at their Santa Fe, New Mexico residence on Wednesday, February 26, 2025. Santa Fe County Sheriff’s deputies found the couple along with their dog in the afternoon.
Sheriff Adan Mendoza confirmed the deaths, stating there were no immediate signs of foul play. The exact cause of death is yet to be determined.
Hackman’s illustrious career spanned over six decades, earning him two Academy Awards for The French Connection and Unforgiven. He was renowned for his versatile performances in films like The Royal Tenenbaums and as Lex Luthor in the Superman series.
Betsy Arakawa, a classical pianist, had been married to Hackman since 1991. The couple had largely stayed out of the public eye in recent years.
As the investigation continues, the entertainment world mourns the loss of this iconic actor and his wife, remembering Hackman’s enduring impact on cinema.