- Thursday, February 27, 2025
By: Vibhuti Pathak
Legendary actor and two-time Academy Award winner Gene Hackman and his wife, classical pianist Betsy Arakawa, were discovered dead in their Santa Fe Summit home on Wednesday afternoon. The Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the couple’s passing, along with their dog.
Sheriff Adan Mendoza announced the news just after midnight on Thursday (27), stating there were no immediate signs of foul play. However, he did not disclose the cause of death or specify when they may have passed away. Authorities are continuing their investigation.
Hackman, known for iconic roles in The French Connection and Unforgiven, had largely retired from Hollywood, living a quiet life in Santa Fe with Arakawa. The couple had been married since 1991. Arakawa, a talented classical pianist, supported Hackman throughout his later years as he transitioned from acting to writing.
The tragic news has left Hollywood and fans worldwide mourning the loss of one of cinema’s most celebrated figures. Tributes have been pouring in from colleagues and admirers who remember Hackman’s powerful screen presence and lasting impact on the film industry.
As investigations continue, more details about their deaths are expected to emerge.
