Gene Hackman, 95, and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, 64, were found dead at their Santa Fe home on February 26, 2025. Their deaths shocked Hollywood, as the couple had lived a reclusive life in New Mexico. Their bodies were discovered by a neighbor and caretaker, with no immediate signs of foul play. Speculation arose about potential carbon monoxide poisoning, but no gas leak was found. Investigators are awaiting toxicology results to determine the cause.
Hackman’s daughter, Leslie, spoke publicly about the loss, noting her father’s good health before his death. Hollywood figures, including Clint Eastwood and Morgan Freeman, paid tribute to the legendary actor. Hackman’s career spanned decades, with two Academy Awards, and his influence remains in Hollywood. The couple’s deaths are still under investigation, and their legacy endures.