Gene Hackman, the iconic actor, was not just a Hollywood star but also a cherished member of the Santa Fe community in New Mexico. Residents express their heartfelt recollections of the actor, who along with his wife, Betsy Arakawa, moved to the area over two decades ago. Upon their arrival, locals were eager to embrace the celebrity, yet they treated him with the same warmth and familiarity as any other neighbor.
Several residents shared that Hackman’s fame felt distant in Santa Fe. "He wasn't famous here," was a common phrase among those reflecting on why the legendary actor chose to make New Mexico's capital his home. Rather than basking in the limelight, Hackman was described as a down-to-earth and engaging individual, deeply involved in supporting local businesses and participating in the vibrant arts scene that defines Santa Fe.
Hackman, who was also an accomplished painter, fit seamlessly into the artistic fabric of Santa Fe, a city renowned for its stunning adobe architecture and rich cultural offerings. With over 250 galleries and an abundance of colorful murals, the city is a haven for artists and art lovers alike. Hackman quickly became an active supporter of local art initiatives, notably serving on the board of directors at the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum. Meanwhile, his wife, Betsy, operated a luxury home goods store and collaborated with local artists on various creative projects.
Many residents have stories about Hackman and his contributions to the local arts community. Stuart Ashman, the executive director of the Artes de Cuba gallery, recalls meeting Hackman at a community arts meeting. Despite his stardom, Hackman was approachable and genuinely interested in others, which fostered a friendship that lasted over two decades. "You didn’t realize that you were talking to a celebrity," Ashman said, highlighting Hackman's humble nature.
Hackman and Ashman bonded over their shared interest in Pilates, often taking private lessons together. Their Pilates instructor humorously noted Hackman's tendency to engage in conversation rather than focus on workouts. "Every week, I would bring a dozen eggs to Hackman, and one day he surprised me with a landscape painting as a thank-you," Ashman recounted. "He insisted that a painting for eggs was a very fair deal," illustrating Hackman's generosity and down-to-earth spirit.
When he wasn't working out or cycling through the picturesque landscapes surrounding Santa Fe, Hackman enjoyed the tranquility of his home, perched on a stunning acre plot with sweeping views of the mountains. He purchased this property in the 1990s and undertook extensive renovations to create a residence that honored Santa Fe's rich architectural history by blending Pueblo, Colonial, and Spanish Baroque styles.
Betsy Arakawa also embraced the Santa Fe lifestyle, with locals describing her as a talented pianist and an astute businesswoman. Friends noted that she was just as passionate about fitness as her husband, frequently attending exercise classes. However, after the COVID-19 lockdowns, many locals observed that Hackman became more reclusive, likely due to health challenges associated with aging.
Even as he became less visible in the community, those who knew him continued to share their cherished memories. James Roybal, a local artist, reminisced about taking a pastel painting class in the 1990s, where he found himself painting next to Hackman. Surprised to see a Hollywood star in such a setting, Roybal snapped a photo to commemorate the moment, which he proudly shares as a testament to Hackman's humble nature.
Victoria Murphy, a local real estate agent and actress, also encountered Hackman on several occasions and was struck by his affable demeanor. She recalled a moment in the street where Hackman waved and smiled at her, creating a delightful memory that she cherishes. At a downtown Santa Fe store, David, the general manager, fought back tears while remembering his friend. "He always wanted to support local businesses. He'd buy Seiko watches for friends and family, not out of necessity but because he loved the local flair," he said.
Gene Hackman’s legacy in Santa Fe is not just about his cinematic achievements but also about the profound impact he made on the community he loved. His connections with local residents, support for the arts, and genuine kindness will forever be remembered by those fortunate enough to know him. As the city mourns the loss of this remarkable individual, his spirit will continue to resonate in the vibrant culture he cherished.
