Gene Hackman, a revered two-time Oscar winner, and his wife, classical pianist Betsy Arakawa, have been found deceased at their home in New Mexico, according to Santa Fe County Sheriff Adan Mendoza. The couple, who had been together for 34 years, were well-known for their reclusive lifestyle since relocating to Santa Fe in 1990 after Hackman retired from a celebrated Hollywood career to focus on writing.
On Wednesday, February 26, authorities discovered the bodies of Hackman, 95, Arakawa, 63, and their pet dog at their residence on Sunset Trail. Sheriff Mendoza has stated that while the investigation is still in its early stages, there appears to be no indication of foul play involved in their deaths. Further details, including the cause and time of death, are pending as investigators await the approval of a search warrant.
Hackman, famed for his roles in iconic films such as “Superman,” “Unforgiven,” and “The French Connection,” was last seen with Arakawa on March 28, 2024, enjoying a dinner date at Pappadeaux’s Seafood Kitchen in Santa Fe. Despite his advanced age, Hackman was mobile, albeit using a cane for support.
The actor’s health had been a concern for some years. He had retired in 2004 at the age of 74 after a stress test in New York showed that his heart wasn’t strong enough to endure the stresses of acting. Hackman had undergone angioplasty earlier in his life, which is a procedure to open blocked arteries. Reflecting on his career and life choices, Hackman revealed in a 2009 interview with Empire magazine that health concerns were a significant factor in his decision to retire.
In his later years, Hackman’s reflections grew more introspective. In a revealing 2011 interview with GQ magazine, Hackman shared his desire to be remembered simply as “a decent actor” who approached his roles with sincerity and honesty. This humble reflection highlighted his straightforward and earnest approach to both his career and life.
Hackman’s personal life was equally eventful. Before his long and happy marriage to Arakawa, he was married to Faye Maltese. They had three children together and were married for 30 years before their divorce in 1986. Hackman openly discussed the difficulties of maintaining family ties, attributing the strained relationships with his children to his demanding career which often kept him away from home.
Hackman and Arakawa’s relationship began in the mid-1980s when they met at a gym where Arakawa was working part-time. Despite a significant age difference, their relationship blossomed into a deep, lasting partnership. Addressing any misconceptions about their relationship, Hackman was quick to clarify in interviews that his marriage had naturally concluded before his relationship with Arakawa began, dismissing any parallels with the roles he played on screen.
The loss of such a storied couple has resonated deeply within the communities of film and music, reflecting on the quiet end to a life lived with intensity on and off the screen. As the investigation into their deaths continues, many await further details, hoping to gain closure on the life and legacy of one of Hollywood’s greatest actors and his talented wife.
