The tragic death of Hollywood legend Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, has left many questioning what happened in their final moments.
While the couple’s untimely deaths were a shock to their friends and family, Doug Lanham, Hackman’s longtime friend and former business partner, is one of the few who can offer insight into the man he fondly referred to as “Captain Hollywood.”
Hackman and his wife were found dead in their New Mexico home on February 26, and police have since determined that Hackman’s pacemaker stopped recording his heartbeat on February 17.
Though the couple’s deaths remain a mystery, Lanham recalls unforgettable moments with Hackman, shedding light on the personal side of the iconic actor.
A Friendship Rooted in Shared Moments
Lanham, a 76-year-old resident of Santa Fe and owner of the local restaurant Jinja, first met Hackman in 2004.
The two bonded over their shared love of food, and before long, Hackman and his wife Betsy became business partners, investing in Jinja.
Their friendship deepened over the years, with Lanham sharing many intimate conversations with the legendary actor.
Hackman, who was known for his private nature, would open up about his difficult childhood. “His early days were not good,” Lanham recalls.
He shared how Hackman’s father waved goodbye to him at a young age, and his mother tragically died in a fire.
Lanham remembers the warmth and kindness that Hackman shared, especially when he spoke about Betsy, whom he deeply loved.
Their bond was evident in all their interactions, and the couple was inseparable, even attending family events with Lanham, where Hackman’s mischievous side often came out.
Gene’s Mischievous Side and Fun Personality
Despite his reputation as a serious actor, Hackman had a playful and mischievous side that Lanham witnessed on several occasions.
One memorable moment occurred during a July 4th celebration at a country club, where Hackman took part in an impromptu water fight with squirt guns.
However, this wasn’t just any squirt gun—Hackman filled his with red wine and chased people around in true “Good, the Bad, and the Ugly” fashion.
Lanham also fondly recalls the time Hackman pranked him at a Western-themed event.
Lanham, unsure of what to wear, took Hackman’s advice and showed up in full cowboy gear, only to find that Hackman had dressed casually in a shirt and hiking boots.
“Where’d you go, the props department for all that?” Hackman laughed, further showcasing his light-hearted nature.
Gene’s Passion and Unwavering Loyalty to Friends
Behind the humor and pranks, Hackman had a deep commitment to his work and those close to him.
Lanham recalls how Hackman, despite acting in over 80 films, never watched his own movies.
“I think the person doing the creating, maybe they feel like it’s never good enough,” Lanham muses.
This self-critical nature was evident even in Hackman’s painting.
He once created a mural for Jinja, but never took the time to admire it himself.
Hackman’s sense of humor also extended to his betting with friends.
Lanham remembers how Hackman would often avoid paying his debts, but when it was time to settle up, Hackman had a creative way of doing so.
“He got me $22 worth of pennies, with a note written in pirate language,” Lanham says, chuckling at the memory.
This playful gesture, complete with a skull and crossbones, highlighted Hackman’s unique personality and how he never lost his sense of fun.
The Joy of Flying and the Magic of Friendship
Hackman’s adventurous spirit extended to flying, where he would often treat friends to thrilling experiences.
Lanham recounts one such moment when Hackman took Burt Reynolds up in his stunt plane during the making of Lucky Lady.
Hackman performed aerial stunts, flying upside down and doing loops, much to Reynolds’ discomfort.
“He only lasted two minutes,” Lanham recalls with a grin.
This free-spirited attitude carried over into Hackman’s personal life, where he was known for being the life of the party, always ready to lead the fun.
At Lanham’s wedding, Hackman and Betsy were the first to start a conga line, getting everyone involved in the joyous celebration.
Lanham recalls, “Gene and Betsy were the life of the party,” and it was clear how much they enjoyed each other’s company.
Their love for one another was palpable, and Lanham fondly remembers their connection.
Betsy’s Role as Gene’s Protector and Companion
Betsy played an important role in Hackman’s life, not only as his partner but also as his protector.
Lanham recalls how she would often intervene when photographers tried to capture Hackman at private events.
“She was very protective,” he says, adding that Betsy kept Hackman on a strict healthy diet, even though he sometimes rebelled.
“He always ate healthy with her. But then we’d go out and play golf, I’d look over and he’d have this huge honey bun,” Lanham laughs.
The love and care they shared was undeniable.
Hackman often mentioned that without Betsy, he’d either be broke or dead.
Lanham describes their relationship as one of deep respect and affection, a bond that was truly special.
Final Thoughts on Hackman’s Legacy
Hackman’s death has left a hole in the hearts of those who knew him best, but his legacy will undoubtedly live on through the stories and memories shared by friends like Doug Lanham.
Despite the mystery surrounding his passing, it’s clear that Hackman’s life was filled with love, laughter, and adventure.
Whether through his pranks, his dedication to his craft, or his deep devotion to Betsy, Gene Hackman will be remembered as a one-of-a-kind individual who lived life to the fullest.