Oscar-winning actor Gene Hackman and his wife, classical pianist Betsy Arakawa, have been confirmed dead at their Santa Fe, New Mexico home, according to authorities. The couple’s pet dog was also found deceased at the property, as reported by Sky News.
Santa Fe County Sheriff Adan Mendoza issued a statement confirming their deaths on Wednesday afternoon. He added, “We can confirm that both Gene Hackman and his wife were found deceased at their residence on Sunset Trail. This is an active investigation; however, at this time we do not believe foul play was involved.” The news was confirmed to local media around midnight on February 26.
While foul play is not suspected, the exact cause of death remains under investigation. Mendoza mentioned, “We’re in the middle of a preliminary death investigation, waiting on approval for a search warrant.”
Hackman, 95, and his wife, 63, were found by deputies. Initial identification was pending as authorities awaited the search warrant. Sheriff Mendoza reassured the public that there was no immediate danger to the community.
Gene Hackman was a highly regarded actor whose career spanned more than 40 years. Known for his commanding presence and versatility, Hackman won two Academy Awards—Best Actor for The French Connection (1971) and Best Supporting Actor for Unforgiven (1992). He also received nominations for Bonnie and Clyde (1967), I Never Sang for My Father (1970), and Mississippi Burning (1988). Hackman’s other notable roles included playing Lex Luthor in Superman (1978) and starring in films like The Conversation (1974), The Poseidon Adventure (1972), and Crimson Tide (1995). He retired from acting after his final role in Welcome to Mooseport (2004).
In addition to acting, Hackman became an author, co-writing historical fiction novels and releasing two solo efforts. His last book, Pursuit, was a crime thriller published in 2013. Reflecting on his life in a 2011 interview, he said, “He tried. I think that’d be fairly accurate.”
Hackman married Arakawa in 1991, and the couple led a quiet life in Santa Fe, away from the public eye. Arakawa, 63, was a classical pianist. Despite Hackman’s fame, the couple enjoyed a private life. Hackman, who had previously been married to Faye Maltese, is survived by three children from his first marriage.
The investigation into the circumstances of their deaths is ongoing. Our thoughts are with their family, friends, and fans during this difficult time.
