Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, were discovered deceased in their Santa Fe home earlier this week, leaving a profound impact on all who admired the actor. Tributes have been flooding in from around the globe.
As fans reflect on Hackman’s remarkable life, many are curious about his later years, during which he largely stepped back from the limelight, though he did make occasional public appearances.
Continue reading to find out more about his last public sighting.
Gene Hackman was seen in public for the first time in over two decades, just a year before his passing.
The acclaimed actor, known for his role in The French Connection, was 95 years old at the time of his death, while his wife Betsy was 63. Tragically, their dog also passed away at their New Mexico home on February 26, 2025.
Santa Fe County confirmed in an official statement, “We can confirm that both Gene Hackman and his wife were found deceased Wednesday afternoon at their residence on Sunset Trail.”
They added, “This is an active investigation – however, at this time we do not believe that foul play was a factor.” Hackman and his wife were last seen in public last year, nearly 21 years after his previous appearance.
In photos from that outing, the couple, married since 1991, was captured leaving Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Hackman was seen holding his wife’s arm while using a cane with his other hand. You can view some of the images shared on X.
Hackman first met Arakawa in Los Angeles, where she worked part-time at a fitness center, and they began dating in 1984.
Gene Hackman ended his marriage to Faye Maltese in 1986, a union that began in 1956. Together, they raised three children: Leslie Anne, Elizabeth Jean, and Christopher Allen.
Known for his memorable performances in films like Mississippi Burning and Behind Enemy Lines, Hackman largely stepped away from acting in 2004 due to health issues.
In a 2009 interview, he revealed, “The straw that broke the camel’s back was actually a stress test that I took in New York.” He went on to explain that his doctor advised him against putting any stress on his heart, which wasn’t in the best condition.
Hackman’s impressive career spanned from 1961 to 2004, during which he appeared in 79 feature films. He garnered numerous accolades, including two Academy Awards, two BAFTAs, four Golden Globes, and a Screen Actors Guild award.
Renowned director Francis Ford Coppola, who collaborated with Hackman on The Conversation in 1974, paid tribute to the legendary actor, stating, “The loss of a great artist is always a reason for both mourning and celebration: Gene Hackman was a remarkable actor, inspiring and magnificent in his work and complexity. I mourn his loss and celebrate his existence and contribution.”
The passing of such a talented actor is truly sorrowful. Our heartfelt condolences go out to all who are grieving the loss of the legendary Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa.
