Before Gene Hackman was found deceased alongside his wife and dog in their New Mexico home, the Oscar-winning actor—best known for his portrayal of Lex Luthor opposite Christopher Reeve’s Superman—had shared a heartfelt detail about his love story with Betsy Arakawa, whom he married in 1991.

Hollywood is mourning the loss of one of its most esteemed actors, Gene Hackman. The two-time Academy Award winner was found dead on February 26, alongside his wife, Betsy Arakawa, and their pet dog in their Santa Fe, New Mexico home.

According to the Associated Press, police conducted a welfare check around 1:45 p.m. when deputies discovered the bodies of Hackman, 95, Arakawa, 63, and their dog in their large Southwestern-style ranch, located in a gated community.

Hackman and Arakawa’s relationship began in the mid-1980s when they met at a California gym where she worked part-time. Despite their 30-year age difference, they built a deep and lasting connection. After marrying in 1991, the couple moved to their home on Old Sunset Trail, a picturesque location overlooking the Rocky Mountains.

During his earlier years in Santa Fe, Hackman was frequently seen around town. However, as time went on, he became increasingly reclusive, with public sightings becoming rare. He and Arakawa embraced a quiet life away from the spotlight.