Gene Hackman's estate seeks block on release of photos, video of his and wife's deaths to 'value' privacy
SANTA FE, NEW MEXICO: A representative for Gene Hackman’s estate is seeking to prevent the release of photos, videos, and police bodycam footage related to the deaths of the actor and his wife, Betsy Arakawa.
The couple, who valued their privacy, were found dead at their Santa Fe Summit property on February 26.
Gene Hackman’s estate seeks court action to protect his privacy
On March 11, lawyer Kurt Sommer filed a petition for a preliminary injunction on behalf of Julia Peters, representing the estate through the Sommer Udall Law Firm.
The petition aims to stop the Office of the Medical Investigator and the Santa Fe County Sheriff's Office from releasing investigative evidence.
"During their lifetime, the Hackmans placed significant value on their privacy and took affirmative, vigilant steps to safeguard their privacy," the petition read, according to court documents, reported People.
The estate argues that releasing such materials would violate the couple’s right to privacy.
"Accordingly, the Hackmans lived an exemplary private life for over 30 years in Santa Fe, New Mexico and did not showcase their lifestyle," the filing stated.
Gene Hackman, wife's pictures and videos will have an irreversible impact
The legal filing highlights the lasting consequences of potential public exposure.
"The old adage, 'The bell cannot be unrung,' is most applicable to the instance at hand," the documents stated.
"Without court intervention, certain unwanted photos, videos, and/or lapel videos could be released to the general public that cannot be returned to the private sphere after their disclosure," the filing states.
Peters, acting on behalf of the estate, is requesting that the court consider the couple’s long-standing commitment to privacy.
"The Personal Representative seeks to continue to preserve the privacy of the Hackmans following their tragic death and support the family's constitutional right to remembrance and desire to grieve in peace," the documents added.
Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa died almost a week apart
Authorities confirmed that Betsy Arakawa died from hantavirus on February 11 as she did not respond to emails after that day when she returned home from the market.
Hackman, who was alone in the home with his wife’s body for several days, succumbed to a combination of severe heart disease, high blood pressure, and advanced Alzheimer's disease.
Officials determined he likely died on February 17, as on that day last activity from his pacemaker was recorded.
Betsy was found on the Bathroom floor of the house with scattered pills around on the countertop. Their dog Zinna was found dead inside a crate feet away from her.
Hackman was found on the ground of a mudroom, cane, and glasses nearby.
