Gene Hackman and Wife Found Dead Under Suspicious Circumstances

The iconic actor and his wife Betsy Arakawa were discovered deceased in their Santa Fe home; investigations into the cause continue.

Gene Hackman, 95, and Betsy Arakawa, 63, were found dead in separate rooms of their Santa Fe residence on February 26, 2025.
Initial examinations ruled out external injuries and a gas leak, though the deaths are considered suspicious and under thorough investigation.
A container of prescription pills was found near Arakawa's body in the bathroom, alongside a space heater; Hackman was discovered fully clothed in another area of the house.
Authorities have not determined the cause of death, with autopsy and toxicology reports pending; no signs of forced entry or a struggle were noted.
Hackman, a two-time Oscar-winning actor known for roles in 'French Connection' and 'Unforgiven,' had retired from acting in 2004 and lived a private life with Arakawa in New Mexico.