Earlier this week, Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, were found dead in their Santa Fe home, shocking fans worldwide. Santa Fe County confirmed, “We can confirm that both Gene Hackman and his wife were found deceased Wednesday afternoon at their residence on Sunset Trail.” Authorities ruled out foul play but are still investigating.

The 95-year-old actor, known for The French Connection, had largely withdrawn from public life due to health concerns. In a 2009 interview, Hackman admitted, “The doctor told me that my heart wasn’t in the kind of shape that I should be putting it under any stress.” His last acting role was in 2004.

The couple, married since 1991, was last seen publicly in 2024, leaving Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen in Albuquerque. Hackman, leaning on his cane, was holding his wife’s arm.

Hackman had three children from his previous marriage to Faye Maltese, which ended in 1986. He starred in 79 films, winning two Academy Awards, two BAFTAs, four Golden Globes, and a Screen Actors Guild award.

Francis Ford Coppola, who directed Hackman in The Conversation, paid tribute: “Gene Hackman was a great actor, inspiring and magnificent in his work and complexity. I honor his life and contributions while grieving his passing.”