Oscar-winning actor Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, were discovered dead in their New Mexico home. The Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the news. Gene Hackman was 95 years old.
A neighbor, concerned about the couple’s well-being, requested the welfare check, CNN affiliate KOAT reported. A search warrant revealed that Gene Hackman, his wife, and their dog had been dead for some time. Their bodies were found in different rooms. Hackman was located in a mudroom, while Arakawa was discovered in a bathroom next to a space heater. An open prescription bottle and scattered pills were found on the countertop near her.
Gene Hackman’s passing comes just days before the Academy Awards. The actor was renowned for his performances in films such as The French Connection, Hoosiers, Unforgiven, and The Firm. His portrayal of conflicted authority figures and cunning villains, including Lex Luthor in the Superman series, left a lasting impact on Hollywood.
Authorities have not determined the causes of death. However, foul play is not suspected, according to Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office spokesperson Denise Womack-Avila. Deputies conducted a welfare check at the residence around 1:45 p.m. on Wednesday, where they found Hackman, Arakawa, and their dog deceased.
The New Mexico medical examiner’s office stated that final autopsy results might take four to six weeks.
Hackman won two Academy Awards, first for The French Connection (1971) as Popeye Doyle and later for Unforgiven (1992) as Sheriff Little Bill Daggett. His work in The Conversation (1974) further showcased his immense talent.
Fans and fellow celebrities, including director Francis Ford Coppola and actor George Takei, have shared tributes. Hackman, who retired from acting at 74, lived quietly in Santa Fe with Arakawa. He is survived by three children from his late ex-wife, Faye Maltese.
