Gene Hackman, one of the most talented, successful, and beloved actors of all-time, has passed away. Authorities found his body alongside his wife Betsy Arakawa and their dog in their long-time New Mexico home. Hackman was 95. Arakawa was 63.
The Associated Press reports authorities found the couple during a wellness check. Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office spokesperson Denise Avila said police discovered the couple and their dog on Wednesday afternoon shortly before 2:00 p.m. Police do not believed there was foul play involved. However, they have not yet released any other information as they investigate.
Hackman and Arakawa married in 1991 and shortly after purchased their home together where they lived until their untimely passing. He is survived by his three children, Christopher Allen, Elizabeth Jean, and Leslie Anne, from his first marriage to the late Faye Maltese. The two married in 1956 and divorced in 1986.
As for Hackman’s legacy there is no way to overstate his accomplishments and place in Hollywood history. Hackman retired more than 20 years ago with his lofty place in the industry long secured. During his long onscreen career, which began on TV in 1961, Hackman earned five Academy Award nominations for acting. He went home with his industry’s highest honor twice. His first win came in 1972 when he won Best Actor for The French Connection. His second Oscar came in 1993 for Best Supporting Actor in Unforgiven. Hackman’s other nominations came for Bonnie and Clyde, I Never Sang for My Father, and Mississippi Burning.
His list of other memorable roles and great movies is far longer. They also show highlight his incredible range and versatility, as he excelled in drama, action, comedy, and genre. A few of his many notable credits include The Royal Tenenbaums, Enemy of the State, Heist, Crimson Tide, The Firm, The Conversation, Hoosiers, The Birdcage, and Young Frankenstein. He also cemented his place in pop culture history as Lex Luthor in the Christopher Reeve Superman films.
Hackman spent part of his retirement writing novels, but generations of fans around the world will remember him for his work in front of a camera. And Hollywood will celebrate the great Gene Hackman’s legacy when it gathers for this year’s Academy Awards just days after his passing.