The tragic deaths of Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, have drawn public sympathy. Found dead in their New Mexico home in mid-February, “Hackman, in the advanced stages of Alzheimer’s disease,” died a week after Betsy. She passed away from Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS), a rare and hard-to-detect illness.

Hackman’s daughter, Leslie Anne Allen, expressed shock over Betsy’s sudden death, despite knowing her father’s health was declining. She said Betsy was “a dedicated caregiver” who supported Hackman in his final years.

Though many believed Hackman was in good health, his autopsy showed “significant heart disease and kidney damage.” This surprised some who thought he had aged well despite his illness.

The couple’s deaths sparked renewed attention on HPS, with its difficulty in detection raising concern. Yet, the bond between Hackman and Arakawa remains the focus for many mourning them.

“Despite the tragedy,” Leslie emphasized, “Hackman and Arakawa’s bond is remembered fondly.”