Actor Gene Hackman and his wife Betsy Arakawa was found dead in their Santa Fe residence on Wednesday, along with their pet dog. Hackman was 95 years old.
According to the Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office, preliminary autopsy results indicate no external injuries. The cause of death remains unknown, and an investigation is ongoing.
While foul play is not immediately suspected, law enforcement officials have not ruled it out entirely. Officers executing a search warrant noted that the circumstances surrounding their deaths warranted a thorough investigation.
Hackman’s body was found in a separate room near the kitchen, while Arakawa was discovered in the bathroom with an open bottle of prescription medication nearby. Scattered pills were also found close to her, and their pet dog was found dead inside a bathroom cupboard.
Two other dogs were discovered unharmed in different areas of the property.
The home’s front door was open, but authorities found no signs of forced entry or theft.
Also Read : Justin Timberlake’s Columbus concert cancelled last-minute due to flu: Fans left disappointed
The Oscars ceremony is expected to honour the legendary actor, either in the In Memoriam segment or with a special tribute during the live broadcast.
Hackman’s family released a statement expressing their grief, remembering him as not only a revered performer but also a beloved father and grandfather.
Tributes have poured in from celebrities and fans alike.
Director Francis Ford Coppola, who worked with Hackman on The Conversation, described him as a great artist whose legacy will endure.
Actor George Takei called Hackman one of the true giants of the screen, praising his ability to bring depth to every role he portrayed.
After retiring from acting in 2004, Hackman led a quiet life in Santa Fe with Arakawa, staying largely out of the public eye.
Also Read : Mexican Open 2025: Can Tomas Machac overcome Brandon Nakashima to reach the final?
FAQs
1. What caused Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa’s deaths?
The cause is unknown. Autopsies showed no external injuries, and toxicology tests are pending.
2. How will Hollywood honour Gene Hackman?
The Academy Awards may feature him in the In Memoriam segment or a special tribute.
According to the Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office, preliminary autopsy results indicate no external injuries. The cause of death remains unknown, and an investigation is ongoing.
While foul play is not immediately suspected, law enforcement officials have not ruled it out entirely. Officers executing a search warrant noted that the circumstances surrounding their deaths warranted a thorough investigation.
Autopsy, toxicology results crucial
Sheriff Adan Mendoza stressed that autopsy and toxicology results would be crucial in determining the cause. Initial checks found no evidence of a gas or carbon monoxide leak, though further tests have been ordered.Hackman’s body was found in a separate room near the kitchen, while Arakawa was discovered in the bathroom with an open bottle of prescription medication nearby. Scattered pills were also found close to her, and their pet dog was found dead inside a bathroom cupboard.
Two other dogs were discovered unharmed in different areas of the property.
The home’s front door was open, but authorities found no signs of forced entry or theft.
Also Read : Justin Timberlake’s Columbus concert cancelled last-minute due to flu: Fans left disappointed
Hollywood mourns Gene Hackman
Hackman’s passing comes just days before the Academy Awards, prompting an outpouring of tributes from Hollywood.The Oscars ceremony is expected to honour the legendary actor, either in the In Memoriam segment or with a special tribute during the live broadcast.
Hackman’s family released a statement expressing their grief, remembering him as not only a revered performer but also a beloved father and grandfather.
Tributes have poured in from celebrities and fans alike.
Director Francis Ford Coppola, who worked with Hackman on The Conversation, described him as a great artist whose legacy will endure.
Actor George Takei called Hackman one of the true giants of the screen, praising his ability to bring depth to every role he portrayed.
Gene Hackman film career
Gene Hackman’s film career spanned five decades, earning him two Academy Awards and five nominations. He rose to fame with Bonnie and Clyde (1967) and delivered iconic performances in The French Connection, Hoosiers, Unforgiven, and The Firm. He also famously portrayed Lex Luthor in the Superman films of the 1970s and 1980s.After retiring from acting in 2004, Hackman led a quiet life in Santa Fe with Arakawa, staying largely out of the public eye.
Also Read : Mexican Open 2025: Can Tomas Machac overcome Brandon Nakashima to reach the final?
FAQs
1. What caused Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa’s deaths?
The cause is unknown. Autopsies showed no external injuries, and toxicology tests are pending.
2. How will Hollywood honour Gene Hackman?
The Academy Awards may feature him in the In Memoriam segment or a special tribute.
Disclaimer Statement: This content is authored by a 3rd party. The views expressed here are that of the respective authors/ entities and do not represent the views of Economic Times (ET). ET does not guarantee, vouch for or endorse any of its contents nor is responsible for them in any manner whatsoever. Please take all steps necessary to ascertain that any information and content provided is correct, updated, and verified. ET hereby disclaims any and all warranties, express or implied, relating to the report and any content therein.
