Gene Hackman led reclusive life with family before he was found dead alongside wife Betsy Arakawa and dog
SANTA FE, NEW MEXICO: Gene Hackman, who died at the age of 95 on February 27, alongside his wife, classical pianist Betsy Arakawa, was known for living a private and peaceful life away from the spotlight since retirement.
Santa Fe County Sheriff Adan Mendoza confirmed the heartbreaking news, stating that the two-time Oscar winner, his wife, and their dog had sadly died. Authorities do not suspect foul play.
Gene Hackman's celebrated Hollywood career before retirement
Spanning over six decades, Gene Hackman’s career was nothing short of extraordinary, as per Express UK.
RIP: Legendary actor Gene Hackman, 95, and wife Betsy Arakawa, 63, found dead with their dog in their Santa Fe home. Sheriff: No foul play suspected. Cause of death unknown. Hackman won Oscars for "The French Connection" and "Unforgiven. pic.twitter.com/Dj7yE60RNl
— Breaking911 (@Breaking911) February 27, 2025
He won his first Oscar for Best Actor in 1972 for his role in 'The French Connection' and later secured a second Academy Award for his performance in 'Unforgiven'.
Born in California on January 30, 1930, Hackman joined the army at just 16 after lying about his age.
Gene Hackman winning at the Oscars for Best Actor in The French Connection.
— In My Mind (@MeAloneInMyMind) February 27, 2025
RIP Gene Hackman 🫡 pic.twitter.com/zlgpRXQadk
Following four and a half years of service, he returned to California before eventually moving to New York to study journalism.
It was during this time that he discovered his passion for acting, setting him on the path to becoming one of Hollywood's most respected actors.
Gene Hackman
— Vincent (@VincentSchmitz) February 27, 2025
1930 – 2025
"The French Connection" (1971-1975)
"The Conversation" (1974)
"Unforgiven" (1992)
"The Royal Tenenbaums" (2001) pic.twitter.com/1DWXrG8Yp3
In 1972, he won his first Oscar, and within the next three years, he starred in 10 films, proving his immense versatility and dedication to the craft.
His performance in 'Unforgiven' (1992), directed by Clint Eastwood, earned him his second Oscar and cemented his status as a Hollywood legend.
Gene Hackman's retirement from acting in 2004
After delivering an extensive filmography of unforgettable performances, Gene Hackman took his final bow in the 2004 film 'Welcome to Mooseport'.
Shortly after, he announced his retirement from acting, choosing to step away from Hollywood for good.
On July 7, 2004, Hackman candidly spoke about his decision to retire during an interview with Larry King, explaining that he had no upcoming projects and considered his acting career to be over, as per Daily Mail.
Later, while promoting his book in 2008, he confirmed his retirement to Reuters (as per BBC), saying, “I haven’t held a press conference to announce retirement, but yes, I’m not going to act any longer. I’ve been told not to say that over the last few years, in case some real wonderful part comes up, but I really don’t want to do it any longer.”
Gene Hackman's private family life with wife and children
Outside the limelight, Gene Hackman led a private family life. From 1956 to 1986, he was married to Faye Maltese.
He shared three children with Maltese: Christopher, Elizabeth, and Leslie. Though they largely remained out of the public eye, they were occasionally seen accompanying their father to glamorous Hollywood events.
In 1991, Hackman married Betsy Arakawa, a classical pianist 30 years his junior.
The couple made their home in Santa Fe, New Mexico, where they were active members of the community for many years.
His last public sighting came in March 2024, when he and his wife, Arakawa were seen enjoying lunch at Pappadeaux’s Seafood Kitchen in New Mexico.
It marked the first time they had been spotted together publicly in over two decades, their last high-profile appearance being at the 2003 Golden Globe Awards when Hackman was honored with the Cecil B DeMille Award.
