Gene Hackman and Wife Betsy Arakawa Found Dead at Their Santa Fe Home

Santa Fe, New Mexico – Hollywood is mourning the loss of one of its most revered actors. Gene Hackman, the two-time Academy Award-winning star known for his unforgettable performances in The French Connection, Unforgiven, and The Royal Tenenbaums, has passed away at the age of 95.

Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, 64, were found dead in their home in Santa Fe, New Mexico, along with their dog. The Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office confirmed their deaths on Wednesday, February 26, 2025.

While the cause of death remains undetermined, officials have stated that no foul play is suspected.

"We can confirm that both Gene Hackman and his wife were found deceased Wednesday afternoon at their residence on Sunset Trail. This is an active investigation—however, at this time, we do not believe that foul play was a factor." – Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office

Gene Hackman, widely regarded as Hollywood’s consummate everyman, captivated audiences for over six decades with his unparalleled ability to portray deeply nuanced and complex characters. From hardened lawmen to flawed antiheroes, his performances were marked by a raw intensity and authenticity that set him apart as one of the greatest actors of his generation.

A Storied Career: From Marine Corps to Movie Stardom

Early Life and Military Service

Born Eugene Allen Hackman on January 30, 1930, in San Bernardino, California, Hackman’s early life was marked by hardship. His father abandoned the family when he was just 13 years old, an experience that would later inform the emotional depth of his acting.

At 16, he lied about his age to enlist in the U.S. Marine Corps, where he served for four and a half years as a radio operator in China, Hawai’i, and Japan.

Following his military service, he pursued journalism at the University of Illinois before eventually deciding to follow his true passion—acting.

Hollywood Breakthrough and Oscar Glory

Hackman’s rise to stardom was anything but conventional. After struggling to find work, he trained at the Pasadena Playhouse, where he befriended fellow aspiring actor Dustin Hoffman. Though both were initially deemed unlikely to succeed in Hollywood, their careers would go on to define an era.

His big break came in 1967’s Bonnie and Clyde, where he played Buck Barrow, earning his first Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor.

But it was 1971’s The French Connection that launched him into superstardom. Playing the relentless New York detective Jimmy “Popeye” Doyle, Hackman delivered one of the most iconic performances in film history, earning him his first Academy Award for Best Actor.

Throughout the following decades, he continued to shine in diverse roles, from playing Lex Luthor in Superman (1978) to starring in the critically acclaimed Mississippi Burning (1988).

In 1992, he won his second Academy Award, this time for Best Supporting Actor in Clint Eastwood’s Unforgiven, where he portrayed the brutal sheriff Little Bill Daggett.

His final standout role was in 2001’s The Royal Tenenbaums, where he played the flawed yet endearing patriarch Royal Tenenbaum, earning him a Golden Globe Award for Best Actor.

Other notable films include:
✅ The Conversation (1974)
✅ Hoosiers (1986)
✅ Crimson Tide (1995)
✅ The Firm (1993)
✅ Enemy of the State (1998)

Hackman’s final film role was in 2004’s Welcome to Mooseport before he announced his retirement.

A Private Life Away from the Spotlight

In 1986, after 30 years of marriage, Hackman divorced his first wife, Faye Maltese, with whom he had three children.

In 1991, he married Betsy Arakawa, a classical pianist, and the couple settled in Santa Fe, New Mexico, choosing a quiet life away from Hollywood.

Though he remained out of the public eye, Hackman occasionally made rare appearances. In 2023, he and Betsy were seen dining together, marking their first public outing in over two decades.

In his later years, Hackman devoted himself to writing novels, a passion he found both calming and creatively fulfilling.

"I was trained to be an actor, not a star. I was trained to play roles, not to deal with fame, agents, and the press." – Gene Hackman

Hollywood Pays Tribute to a Cinematic Giant

The announcement of Hackman’s passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes from Hollywood legends, fans, and colleagues.

???? Francis Ford Coppola: "Gene Hackman was a great actor—complex, inspiring, and magnificent in his craft. I mourn his loss and celebrate his legacy."

???? George Takei: "We have lost one of the true giants of the screen. Gene Hackman could play anyone—his performances will live on forever."

???? Hollywood Fans: "An absolute legend. One of the finest actors of all time. Rest in peace, Gene Hackman."

With two Oscars, four Golden Globes, and two BAFTAs, Hackman leaves behind an extraordinary cinematic legacy.

Final Thoughts: A Legend Who Transcended Hollywood

Gene Hackman was more than just an actor—he was a storyteller, a performer, and a true master of his craft. His decision to step away from Hollywood only solidified his status as one of the most respected figures in the industry.

As the world bids farewell to this cinematic icon, one thing remains certain: Gene Hackman’s legacy will live on forever.