Iconic Actor Gene Hackman and Wife Found Dead in New Mexico Home

The film industry and fans worldwide are mourning the loss of Gene Hackman, a luminary of American cinema, who was found dead with his wife, Betsy Arakawa, at their home in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Hackman, who was 95, had carved a remarkable career with roles that have become seminal in the pantheon of Hollywood filmmaking.

The discovery was reported on Wednesday afternoon when the Santa Fe County Sheriff's Office was alerted by a neighbor requesting a welfare check. Upon arrival, officials found Hackman, his wife, and even their dog deceased. Arakawa, 64, was a classically trained pianist, sharing a quiet life with Hackman in New Mexico following his retirement from acting.

NEW: Actor Gene Hackman’s German shepherd was found deceased in a bathroom closet about 15 feet from his wife’s “mummified” body, according to new reports.

The 9/11 audio has also been released.

According to the New York Times, pills were found scattered around near the body… pic.twitter.com/PUpMFA5gRM

— Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) February 27, 2025

According to Denise Womack Avila, the public information officer for the sheriff's office, "Foul play is not suspected at this time, however, the exact causes of death have not yet been determined." The ongoing investigation keeps specific details scarce as the community and Hackman's fans await answers.

Throughout his six-decade career, Hackman was acclaimed for his powerful performances in some of the most iconic films ever made. His portrayal of Jimmy "Popeye" Doyle in "The French Connection" won him an Oscar and left an indelible mark on the thriller genre with its legendary car chase scene. Hackman's ability to convey complex characters extended to films like "The Conversation," "Mississippi Burning," and "Unforgiven," the latter earning him a second Oscar.

Beyond his formidable acting prowess, Hackman's early life was marked by resilience and adaptability. Born in California and raised in Illinois, he left school at 16 to join the U.S. Marines, which led to a stint as a radio operator stationed in China. Following his military service, Hackman moved to New York to pursue acting, a decision that ultimately steered his path to Hollywood stardom.

In New York, Hackman aligned with future stars Dustin Hoffman and Robert Duvall, sharing similar struggles and ambitions. His breakout role came alongside Warren Beatty in "Bonnie & Clyde," setting the stage for a career that would feature varied roles across a spectrum of genres.

Despite his success, Hackman elected to step back from the limelight, retiring after his role in "Welcome to Mooseport" in 2004. He then turned his attention to writing, publishing several novels.

Hackman's death marks the end of an era for those who revered his contributions to cinema and admired his dedication to his craft. As inquiries continue into the circumstances surrounding the deaths, the legacy of Gene Hackman's remarkable contributions to film and his profound impact on American culture remain undiminished.