Santa Fe, New Mexico – Legendary Hollywood actor Gene Hackman, a two-time Academy Award winner, was found dead alongside his wife, Betsy Arakawa, in their Santa Fe, New Mexico home on Wednesday, February 27, 2025. The Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the tragic discovery, reporting no immediate signs of foul play. Hackman was 95 years old, while Arakawa was 62.
Authorities Find Gene Hackman and Wife Deceased at Their Home
Deputies responded to the couple’s residence around 1:45 p.m. after concerns were raised over their prolonged absence. The front door was open, and investigators found no evidence of forced entry, according to a search warrant affidavit.
- Gene Hackman was found in a mudroom of the home.
- Betsy Arakawa was discovered in a bathroom, lying on the floor near a space heater.
- An open prescription bottle and scattered pills were seen on a nearby countertop in the bathroom.
- A German shepherd—believed to be their pet—was found dead inside a closet, about 10 to 15 feet away from Arakawa.
Investigation and Cause of Death
Authorities, including the Santa Fe City Fire Department and the New Mexico Gas Co., conducted a thorough carbon monoxide assessment but found no signs of poisoning or a gas leak in the home.
Hackman’s body showed no visible external trauma, while a deputy noted bloating, facial decomposition, and mummification of Arakawa’s hands and feet, suggesting they may have been deceased for several days before being discovered.
Although authorities have ruled out forced entry and a gas leak, they are awaiting toxicology reports to determine whether medications or other substances played a role in their deaths.
Gene Hackman’s Legacy: A Hollywood Titan
Born on January 30, 1930, in San Bernardino, California, Eugene Allen Hackman became one of the most revered actors of his generation. He won two Academy Awards, four Golden Globes, and two BAFTA Awards over his illustrious career.
Notable Films:
- “The French Connection” (1971) – Won Best Actor Oscar
- “Unforgiven” (1992) – Won Best Supporting Actor Oscar
- “The Conversation” (1974)
- “Mississippi Burning” (1988)
- “Superman” (1978, 1980, 1987) – Portrayed Lex Luthor
- “The Royal Tenenbaums” (2001) – Won Golden Globe
Hackman retired from acting after “Welcome to Mooseport” (2004) and transitioned into writing novels, penning several books, including historical fiction and thrillers.
Betsy Arakawa: A Private Life by Hackman’s Side
Betsy Arakawa, born December 1, 1962, was a classical pianist and entrepreneur. She met Hackman at a California gym in the 1980s, where she worked part-time. The couple married in 1991, six years after Hackman’s divorce from his first wife, Faye Maltese.
Though she largely stayed out of the spotlight, Arakawa accompanied Hackman to major Hollywood events and shared his preference for a quiet life away from Los Angeles. The couple moved to Santa Fe in the 1980s, embracing a peaceful, low-profile lifestyle.
Family and Statement from Hackman’s Children
Hackman is survived by his three adult children from his first marriage to Faye Maltese:
- Christopher Allen Hackman
- Elizabeth Jean Hackman
- Leslie Anne Hackman
In a statement released through USA TODAY, the Hackman family expressed their grief:
“It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our father, Gene Hackman, and his wife, Betsy. He was loved and admired by millions around the world for his brilliant acting career, but to us, he was always just Dad and Grandpa. We will miss him sorely and are devastated by the loss.”
Last Public Appearance and Private Life in Santa Fe
Hackman and Arakawa were last publicly seen in March 2024, when paparazzi captured them leaving a Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen in Santa Fe. The actor, known for being reclusive, had been largely out of the public eye since his retirement.
In a 2000 interview with the Irish Independent, Hackman spoke about his love for Santa Fe:
“Where we live, in Santa Fe, you can lead your own life and not be bothered by the latest gossip. Besides, a film actor doesn’t have to live in LA. Not that many movies are shot there anymore.”
Hackman also admitted that his Hollywood career affected his relationship with his three children, stating:
“I couldn’t always be home with them when they were growing up. It’s tough being the son or daughter of a celebrity.”
Net Worth and Legacy
At the time of his passing, Gene Hackman had an estimated net worth of $80 million, built through his film career, book sales, and real estate investments.
Though he stepped away from the industry over two decades ago, his performances in films like “The French Connection” and “Unforgiven” remain legendary, influencing generations of actors and filmmakers.
Tributes from Hollywood and Beyond
Several Hollywood legends and former co-stars have shared their condolences:
- Tom Hanks: “One of the greatest actors of all time. Rest easy, Gene.”
- Morgan Freeman: “A brilliant storyteller, both on screen and in his books. He will be missed.”
- Clint Eastwood: “A true legend. Grateful to have worked with him.”
- Viola Davis: “Gene Hackman was a master of his craft. Hollywood lost a giant today.”
What Happens Next?
The Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office is still awaiting the results of toxicology reports, which will help determine the exact causes of death for both Hackman and Arakawa.
The family is expected to release funeral arrangements in the coming days.
Final Thoughts
Gene Hackman’s passing marks the end of an era. A Hollywood icon who chose a quiet life away from fame, his impact on cinema and storytelling remains immeasurable. Fans, fellow actors, and loved ones continue to mourn the loss of a true legend and his devoted wife.
