Hollywood legend Gene Hackman, along with his wife, Betsy Arakawa, has been discovered dead at their home in Santa Fe.
The couple, who had been married for over three decades, were found alongside their dog.
Local authorities have confirmed that there is no suspicion of foul play, although details regarding the cause of death remain unclear.
Santa Fe County Sheriff, Adan Mendoza, refrained from providing specifics about when the couple passed or the cause of death, according to local media reports.
Gene Hackman’s Reclusive Final Years
Gene Hackman, the iconic two-time Oscar-winning actor, had just celebrated his 95th birthday in January.
Hackman was known for his remarkable career in Hollywood, starring in classics such as Bonnie and Clyde (1967), Superman, The French Connection, and Get Shorty.
However, after his final film role in 2004, Hackman chose to retire from acting and relocate to the quiet surroundings of Santa Fe, New Mexico.
This decision to step away from the spotlight came amid personal health challenges, including heart problems.
Hackman, who was always a somewhat private person, left Los Angeles behind and embraced a more tranquil life far from the cameras.
A Rare Public Outing Before His Passing
Just last year, Hackman made a rare public appearance with his wife Betsy, a 63-year-old classical pianist.
The two were seen at Pappadeaux’s Seafood Kitchen in Santa Fe, marking their first public outing together in 21 years.
Hackman, leaning on his wife for support, appeared in good spirits as they dined out, a rare moment for the private couple.
This outing was a stark contrast to their last public appearance at the 2003 Golden Globe Awards, where Hackman won the prestigious Cecil B. deMille award.
The End of an Acting Career and the Rise of a Novelist
Hackman’s retirement from acting was not a decision made lightly. In a 2008 interview with Reuters, he explained that although he never officially held a press conference to announce his retirement, he was done with acting.
He attributed his departure to the stress of the industry, which began to affect his health.
Hackman found solace in writing novels, an endeavor that allowed him to control his work and maintain a sense of privacy.
He often expressed how much he enjoyed the solitude of writing, noting that it was similar to acting but much more personal.
In interviews, Hackman also alluded to the fact that while acting had been fulfilling, it had its compromises.
Writing, on the other hand, was a more private outlet where he could truly express himself.
Although he retired from acting, Hackman did lend his voice to the film industry by narrating two Marine Corps documentaries: The Unknown Flag Raiser of Iwo Jima (2016) and We, The Marines (2017).
Hackman’s Early Life and Military Service
Born in California on January 30, 1930, Hackman’s early years were marked by a sense of adventure.
At just 16 years old, he enlisted in the army, lying about his age to serve for four and a half years.
Following his military service, Hackman returned to California, where he initially settled before pursuing a career in acting.
After a brief stint in New York, he ultimately made his mark in Hollywood and became one of the industry’s most respected actors.