celebrity deaths

Gene Hackman, his wife Betsy Arakawa, and their dog passed away in their home in New Mexico

According to the Santa Fe County Sheriff's Office, the investigation is active, and foul play is not suspected

Senior Writer

FEBRUARY 27, 2025 9:45 AM ESTFEB 27, 2025, 9:45 AM EST

It is hard to believe that Gene Hackman, a legendary actor who won our hearts with films like "The French Connection" and "Unforgiven," is no longer with us. In Santa Fe, New Mexico, Hackman, along with his wife Betsy Arakawa and their dog, were found deceased at their home on Old Sunset Trail in Hyde Park on 26 February 2025 at around 1:45 pm.

The Santa Fe County Sheriff in New Mexico released a statement informing: "We can confirm that both Gene Hackman and his wife were found deceased Wednesday afternoon at their residence on Sunset Trail. This is an active investigation - however, at this time we do not believe that foul play was a factor." Hackman was 95, and his wife 63. "On 26 February, 2025, at approximately 1:45pm, Santa Fe County Sheriff's deputies were dispatched to an address on Old Sunset Trail in Hyde Park where Gene Hackman, his wife Betsy Arakawa, and a dog were found deceased," the Santa Fe County Sheriff's office said.

Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa are seen on November 16, 2001 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Bauer-Griffin/GC Images)

Gene Hackman spent more than six decades on screen, leaving a mark on all who watched him perform. Even after his final film role in "Welcome to Mooseport" in 2004, he chose a quiet life in New Mexico. He once explained that he was trained to be an actor, not a star. This honest reflection resonated with many who admired his authenticity and depth. Betsy Arakawa was known for her talent as a classical pianist, and they enjoyed a life far from the chaos of Hollywood together.

Reactions from the Film Community

Many friends and fellow actors expressed their sorrow upon hearing the news. "Star Trek" actor George Takei remembered Hackman as one of the true giants of the screen. "Gene Hackman could play anyone, and you could feel a whole life behind it," he wrote. "He could be everyone and no one, a towering presence or an everyday Joe. That's how powerful an actor he was. He will be missed, but his work will live on forever."

Gene Hackman as Harry Caul in The Conversation, one of Francis Ford Coppola's early films. Caul is a surveillance expert.

"Slumdog Millionaire" star Anil Kapoor called him "a true legend whose legacy will live on."

A Legacy That Will Live On

Even as we come to terms with this tragic news, our memories of Gene Hackman and his incredible body of work will stay with us. His performances brought life to every character he played, and his contributions to film will continue to inspire future generations. For fans and friends, this loss feels personal and profound.

CIRCA 1987: Actors Gene Hackman and Christopher Reeve in a scene from the Warner Bros. movie "Superman IV: The Quest for Peace" circa 1987.

This is a moment to celebrate the talent and spirit of a man whose work enriched our lives. Gene Hackman may be gone, but his legacy remains in every film he has touched and every heart he has moved. Read here more about his career.