Renowned actor Gene Hackman, 95, and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, 63, were discovered deceased in their Santa Fe residence on Wednesday afternoon. The Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office has deemed the circumstances “suspicious,” prompting a comprehensive investigation.
Sheriff Adan Mendoza reported that deputies responded to the Hackman residence following a call from an employee who found the front door ajar and had not heard from the couple in two weeks. Upon entering, authorities found Hackman’s body in a mudroom and Arakawa’s in a bathroom adjacent to a space heater. One of the couple’s dogs was also found dead, while two others were unharmed. No immediate signs of foul play, such as forced entry or visible injuries, were observed. However, the presence of an open medication bottle and scattered pills near Arakawa’s body has raised questions. Additionally, the possibility of carbon monoxide poisoning is being considered, though no gas leaks have been detected. Autopsies are scheduled to determine the exact causes of death.
Gene Hackman, born on January 30, 1930, in San Bernardino, California, enjoyed a prolific acting career spanning over five decades. He earned two Academy Awards: Best Actor for “The French Connection” (1971) and Best Supporting Actor for “Unforgiven” (1992). Hackman’s extensive filmography includes notable works such as “Bonnie and Clyde” (1967), “Mississippi Burning” (1988), and “The Royal Tenenbaums” (2001). In 2004, he retired from acting to focus on writing and painting.
Betsy Arakawa, a classical pianist, married Hackman in 1991. The couple resided in Santa Fe, where they led a relatively private life. Their partnership was marked by mutual support and shared interests in the arts.
The news of their passing has elicited an outpouring of grief from the entertainment community and fans worldwide. Tributes highlighting Hackman’s impactful performances and the couple’s contributions to the arts have flooded social media platforms.
As the investigation continues, authorities urge anyone with pertinent information to contact the Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office. Further details will be released as they become available.
Sources:
- Gene Hackman and pianist wife Betsy Arakawa found dead at home
- Gene Hackman, Academy Award-Winning Actor, Dead at 95
- Actor Gene Hackman and his wife Betsy Arakawa found dead
- Oscar winner Gene Hackman and his wife found dead at home
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- Gene Hackman
