Renowned actor Gene Hackman, 95, and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, 65, were found deceased in their Santa Fe, New Mexico home on February 26, 2025. The couple’s bodies were discovered by maintenance workers who became concerned after not hearing from them for approximately two weeks.
Hackman’s body was located in the foyer, while Arakawa was found in a bathroom near a portable heater, with prescription medications scattered nearby. One of their three dogs, a German Shepherd, was also found dead near Arakawa, while the other two dogs survived outside.
Initial investigations revealed no signs of external trauma or foul play. Tests for carbon monoxide poisoning returned negative results, and there were no indications of toxic leaks in their residence.
Friends noted that Hackman’s health had been deteriorating in recent months, with him becoming homebound and ceasing activities like biking about a year prior. Arakawa, a classical pianist, was reportedly in good health and protective of Hackman, especially concerning COVID-19.
Data from Hackman’s pacemaker indicated that his heart had stopped on February 17, nine days before their bodies were discovered. A prominent forensic pathologist, Dr. Michael Baden, suggested that Hackman likely suffered cardiac arrest due to severe heart disease, and Arakawa may have fallen while attempting to assist him, possibly sustaining a fatal internal injury.
The Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Department continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding their deaths, awaiting official autopsy and toxicology reports to determine the exact causes.
Gene Hackman, a two-time Oscar winner, was celebrated for his versatile roles in films such as “The French Connection” and “Unforgiven.” His death marks the end of an era in American cinema, with many in the film industry paying tribute to his remarkable career and legacy.
