Gene Hackman, the legendary actor and two-time Oscar winner, and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, were found dead in their Santa Fe home on Wednesday afternoon. The Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that the couple and their dog were discovered deceased during a welfare check at approximately 1:45 p.m.
Sheriff Adan Mendoza stated there was no immediate indication of foul play, and the investigation is ongoing. Authorities have not disclosed the exact cause and time of death at this time.
One of my favorite actors of all time has passed away. Rest in power gene Hackman. Thank you for all the brilliance you’ve given us over the years!! You will be missed sorely! https://t.co/exzP7M38i6
— Baye McNeil (@BayeMcneil) February 27, 2025
Hackman, 95, has lived in Santa Fe since the 1980s and married Arakawa, 63, in 1991. Their home is in the gated community of Santa Fe Summit, off Hyde Park Road.
We are saddened to hear that the much-celebrated actor Gene Hackman has died aged 95.
Hackman's illustrious career spanned over six decades and earned him BAFTA wins for his work in Unforgiven, The French Connection and The Poseidon Adventure. pic.twitter.com/hwgqpff5sZ
— BAFTA (@BAFTA) February 27, 2025
Throughout his illustrious career, Hackman received numerous accolades, including Academy Awards for Best Actor in “The French Connection” (1971) and Best Supporting Actor in “Unforgiven” (1992).
Gene Hackman – what a life! So strong and such presence in every role. We salute you. You made a deep mark on the world of cinema. Now sleep well https://t.co/YtPwFxMXLr
— Eddie Izzard (@eddieizzard) February 27, 2025
He delivered memorable performances in films such as “Bonnie and Clyde,” “Mississippi Burning,” and as Lex Luthor in the “Superman” series.
Gene Hackman was 95 and his wife 63. The couple and their dog were found dead. https://t.co/oGBFggm0A4
— Soutik Biswas (@soutikBBC) February 27, 2025
Gene Hackman and wife found dead
Hackman retired from acting in 2004 but remained active in the Santa Fe community.
He served as a board member of the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum in the 1990s and co-authored several books with fellow Santa Fean Daniel Lenihan. Hackman also wrote two novels on his own, “Payback at Morning Peak” (2011) and “Pursuit” (2013). The news of Hackman and Arakawa’s passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes from fans and colleagues across the entertainment industry.
Many have taken to social media to express their condolences and share memories of the iconic actor. Hackman is survived by his two children from his previous marriage to Faye Maltese, Christopher and Elizabeth. The loss of this Hollywood legend marks the end of an era, and his contributions to the world of cinema will be remembered for generations to come.
As the investigation continues, more details surrounding the circumstances of their deaths are expected to emerge in the coming days.
