Renowned Hollywood actor and two-time Oscar winner Gene Hackman was discovered dead in his New Mexico home on Wednesday, alongside his wife, Betsy Arakawa, and their dog. Investigators believe the couple may have been deceased for an extended period, but the official cause of death remains undisclosed. Hackman, aged 95, was celebrated for his versatile performances as both heroes and villains in iconic films like “The French Connection,” “Hoosiers,” and “Superman,” spanning from the 1960s until his retirement in the early 2000s.
Authorities in Santa Fe, New Mexico, are still investigating the circumstances of the deaths. According to a search warrant affidavit, a maintenance worker alerted the police after discovering the bodies during routine work at the residence. The worker noted that the home’s front door was ajar upon arrival. In his 911 call, he reported seeing Betsy Arakawa, aged 63, lying on the floor through a window but was unable to enter the house.
Inside the home, Gene Hackman was found in the entryway, while Arakawa was located next to a space heater in the bathroom. A search of the premises revealed scattered pills and an open prescription bottle near Arakawa. Additionally, authorities discovered the body of a German shepherd in a bathroom closet, while two other dogs were found alive on the property. Although investigators stated that no foul play was suspected, the nature of the deaths was deemed “suspicious enough” to warrant a comprehensive investigation.
The New Mexico Gas Company conducted tests on the gas lines in the home and found no immediate issues. However, investigators noted that signs of poisoning might not be apparent in cases of gas leaks or carbon monoxide exposure, but no leaks were detected. As of Thursday, the results of the autopsies for both Hackman and Arakawa have not been released.
Gene Hackman’s illustrious career began in 1961 with his debut in “Mad Dog Coll.” Over the next four decades, he starred in a wide range of roles that cemented his status as a Hollywood icon. His portrayal of Lex Luthor in the “Superman” franchise and his unforgettable performance as the passionate coach in “Hoosiers” are just a few examples of his remarkable talent.
Hackman received his first Academy Award for Best Actor for his role as a relentless and morally ambiguous cop in the 1971 classic “The French Connection.” He won his second Oscar for playing a sadistic sheriff in Clint Eastwood’s 1992 film “Unforgiven.” Despite his fame, Hackman remained grounded and was known as an “actor’s actor,” focusing on his craft rather than the trappings of celebrity life. Growing up, films provided him with an escape from a turbulent childhood marked by an abusive father.
The news of Hackman’s death has elicited heartfelt tributes from numerous figures in Hollywood. Director Francis Ford Coppola, actor-director Clint Eastwood, and actor Bill Murray have all expressed their admiration for Hackman. Bill Murray, who collaborated with Hackman on the 2001 film “The Royal Tenenbaums,” remarked on Hackman’s dedication and skill, stating, “He was a great one. He was a great actor.”
Cary Elwes, known for his roles in films such as “The Princess Bride,” called Hackman a “force of nature,” praising the thrill of growing up watching his movies. Actor Steve Toussaint emphasized that everything one needs to learn about acting can be found in Hackman’s performances, mentioning iconic films like “The French Connection,” “Crimson Tide,” and “The Conversation.”
Betsy Arakawa, born in December 1959 in Hawaii, was a talented classical pianist who showcased her skills as a child. She attended the University of Southern California and was involved in various activities, including being a cheerleader for the Los Angeles Aztecs and working as a production assistant on the game show “Card Sharks.” Betsy met Gene Hackman while working part-time at a gym in California in the mid-1980s, and the couple later moved to Santa Fe.
In Santa Fe, Arakawa became the vice president of Pandora’s, a home décor and furnishing store. Her life with Hackman included enjoying movies and spending quiet moments together in their picturesque Southwestern-style ranch.
Hackman and Arakawa resided in a stunning Southwestern-style home perched atop a hill, offering breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains. This tranquil area is favored by artists and celebrities seeking respite from Hollywood. Their residence, which boasts four bedrooms and spans 8,700 square feet on six acres, was featured in a 1990 Architectural Digest article and was valued at over $4 million, according to local property records.
Throughout his later years, Gene Hackman was seen less frequently in public, engaging in hobbies such as painting, deep-sea diving, and writing novels. Despite his reclusive nature, he was occasionally spotted in everyday situations, such as pumping gas or enjoying a meal at a fast-food restaurant.
This tragic incident marks the end of an era for one of Hollywood's most celebrated talents. As investigations continue, fans and colleagues alike remember Gene Hackman not only for his incredible filmography but for his profound impact on the world of cinema.
