LOS ANGELES – Gene Hackman, the legendary actor known for his intense and versatile performances, has died at the age of 95, along with his wife, pianist Betsy Arakawa, and their dog, at their home in Santa Fe, New Mexico. The Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office reported on February 27 that the couple was found deceased on February 26 at around 1:45 pm.
Authorities stated that foul play is not suspected, although the exact cause of death remains under investigation. Hackman, a former Marine whose career spanned more than six decades, was celebrated for his raspy voice and powerful on-screen presence. He starred in over 80 films, as well as on television and the stage.
He first gained critical acclaim with an Oscar nomination for his role as Buck Barrow in Bonnie And Clyde (1967). He went on to win the Academy Award for Best Actor for his portrayal of Popeye Doyle, a gritty New York detective in The French Connection (1971). Hackman secured his second Oscar for Best Supporting Actor as a cruel sheriff in Unforgiven (1992). He also earned Oscar nominations for I Never Sang For My Father (1970) and Mississippi Burning (1988).
Renowned for his versatility, Hackman brought a raw and authentic presence to a wide range of characters, from the iconic villain Lex Luthor in Superman (1978) and Superman II (1980), to a dedicated basketball coach in Hoosiers (1986). He retired from acting in his 70s, with his last major role in Welcome To Mooseport (2004).
Hackman was married twice and had three children – Christopher, Elizabeth Jean, and Leslie Anne – with his first wife, Faye Maltese, who passed away in 2017. He married Betsy Arakawa in 1991. Gene Hackman leaves behind a remarkable legacy as one of Hollywood’s most distinguished actors.