Oscar-winning actor Gene Hackman, his wife, and their dog discovered dead in their New Mexico home.

 Oscar-winning actor Gene Hackman, his wife, and their dog discovered dead in their New Mexico home

Oscar-winning actor Gene Hackman was found dead, along with his wife, pianist Betsy Arakawa, and their dog, in their New Mexico home

Oscar-winning actor Gene Hackman, his wife Betsy Arakawa, and their dog were found deceased in their Santa Fe, New Mexico home on February 26, 2025. Authorities have stated that no foul play is suspected, but the circumstances surrounding their deaths remain under investigation.

Hackman, aged 95, was renowned for his versatile roles in films such as The French Connection, Superman, and The Royal Tenenbaums. His career spanned over four decades, earning him two Academy Awards and multiple nominations. After retiring from acting in 2004, he focused on writing historical fiction.

Tributes from the film industry have begun to pour in, highlighting Hackman's significant impact and legacy as a distinguished actor.

Oscar-winning actor Gene Hackman, his wife Betsy Arakawa, and their dog were found deceased in their Santa Fe, New Mexico home on February 26, 2025. Authorities have stated that no foul play is suspected, but the circumstances surrounding their deaths remain under investigation.

Hackman, aged 95, was a five-time Academy Award nominee, winning Best Actor for The French Connection and Best Supporting Actor for Unforgiven, with the two wins coming 21 years apart. His passing comes just four days before this year’s Oscar ceremony.

The couple resided in a gated community just outside New Mexico’s capital city. Hackman moved to the area in the 1980s and became a well-known local figure. He was often seen around town and even served as a board member of the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum in the 1990s.

Unlike many of his peers, Hackman largely stayed out of Hollywood’s social scene, making only occasional appearances at award shows. His retirement from acting nearly 20 years ago was one of the rare ones that truly lasted. In his later years, he focused on writing, penning several novels from his hilltop ranch, which offered breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains.

Tributes from the film industry have begun pouring in, celebrating Hackman’s legendary career and lasting impact on cinema.