An investigation has been launched into the death of actor Gene Hackman following the discovery of his body, as well as that of his wife, pianist Betsy Arakawa, and their dog.
According to the Sheriff’s Office in Santa Fe, New Mexico, Hackman, Arakawa, and their pet were all found dead at their residence.
Hackman, 95, and Arakawa, 65, are believed to have died around 1:45 p.m. on Wednesday. No foul play is suspected at the moment.
“Foul play is not suspected as a factor in those deaths at this time, however exact cause of death has not been determined. This is an active and ongoing investigation by the Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office,” a statement notes, per Reuters.
Gene Hackman Had An Illustrious Big-Screen Career
Hackman, a two-time Oscar winner, appeared in over 80 films throughout a career spanning 60 years – he also featured in television projects. The former Marine began acting in the early 1960s and won his first Oscar nomination for his role as the brother of bank robber Clyde Barrow in the 1996 film, ‘Bonnie & Clyde.’
He was also nominated for Best Supporting actor in 1971 after featuring in ‘I Never Sang For My Father.’
Hackman’s role as Popeye Doyle, the New York detective in ‘The French Connection’ earned him a Best Actor Academy Award. He won Best Supporting Actor in the 1993 Oscar after playing a sheriff in Clint Eastwood’s ‘Unforgiven’ after an Academy Award nomination for his part in ‘Mississippi Burning.’
Hackman is survived by three children, son Christopher, daughter Elizabeth and daughter Leslie, whom he shared with his ex-wife Faye Maltese.
TPS extends condolences to the family, his friends, and loved ones.
R.I.P. Gene Hackman. 1930-2025
