Santa Fe police say no foul play is suspected
Legendary Hollywood actor Gene Hackman has been found dead in his Santa Fe home, authorities have confirmed.
Santa Fe County Sheriff Adan Mendoza announced that Hackman, along with his wife, renowned classical pianist Betsy Arakawa, was discovered at their residence. While the cause of death remains undisclosed, Mendoza stated that there is no suspicion of foul play at this time.
Tragically, the couple’s beloved dog was also found deceased alongside them.
Santa Fe County Sheriff Adan Mendoza declined to comment on when Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, may have passed when questioned by reporters.
In a brief statement, Mendoza said, “All I can say is that we’re in the middle of a preliminary death investigation, waiting on approval of a search warrant.”
Gene Hackman, a true Hollywood legend, was best known for his unforgettable performances as Lex Luthor in Superman, Little Bill Daggett in Unforgiven, and Jimmy Doyle in The French Connection. Despite his immense success, Hackman remained a private individual, stepping away from the spotlight in 2004 when he announced his retirement from acting.
“I haven’t held a press conference to announce retirement, but yes, I’m not going to act any longer,” he told the press at the time. “I really don’t want to do it any longer.”
After leaving Los Angeles, he relocated to New Mexico, where he embraced a quieter life. Although rumors swirled that his decision to retire was due to stress, Hackman never publicly confirmed this. Over the course of his illustrious career, he amassed more than 100 acting credits, solidifying his status as one of Hollywood’s greats.
Hackman and Betsy Arakawa began dating in the mid-1980s and married in 1991. However, he was quick to clarify that their relationship did not come at the expense of his first marriage to Faye Maltese. “By the way, I did not leave my real-life wife for a younger woman,” he once explained. “We just drifted apart. We lost sight of each other. When you work in this business, marriage takes a great deal of work and love.”
As details surrounding the tragic passing of Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, remain scarce, fans have taken to social media to pay tribute to the legendary actor and his beloved partner.
One Twitter user expressed their sorrow, writing, “RIP Gene Hackman and his wife Betsy Arakawa. Found dead, marking the end of an era in cinema.”
Another honored the couple’s legacy, stating, “Honoring the memory of Gene Hackman and his wife Betsy Arakawa. Their impact on cinema and music will not be forgotten.”
A third user lamented, “That is awful news. Truly one of the best actors Hollywood ever gave us.”
Yet another added, “What a legend. He left behind a legacy of some of the best movies of our time.”
Hackman’s passing marks the loss of one of Hollywood’s most celebrated actors, whose influence on cinema will continue to resonate for generations to come.
