Iconic actor Gene Hackman, 95, and his wife, classical pianist Betsy Arakawa, 64, were discovered deceased alongside their dog in their Santa Fe, New Mexico residence on February 26, 2025. The Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office reported no immediate signs of foul play, with causes of death pending further investigation.
Sheriff Adan Mendoza stated that deputies responded to a welfare check at the couple’s home around 1:45 p.m. The preliminary investigation has not indicated any criminal activity, but authorities are awaiting autopsy results to determine the exact causes of death.
Gene Hackman’s illustrious career spanned over six decades, earning him two Academy Awards for his roles in “The French Connection” (1971) and “Unforgiven” (1992). He was also known for memorable performances in films such as “Bonnie and Clyde” (1967), “The Conversation” (1974), and “The Royal Tenenbaums” (2001). Hackman retired from acting in 2004 to focus on writing, authoring several novels.
Betsy Arakawa, a respected classical pianist, married Hackman in 1991. The couple had resided in their Santa Fe home since the 1980s.
Tributes have poured in from the entertainment industry, with director Francis Ford Coppola remarking, “Gene was a true actor’s actor—fearless, versatile, and deeply committed to his craft.” Fans worldwide mourn the loss of a cinematic legend whose impact on film and culture remains indelible.
