Preliminary Autopsy Findings
Initial autopsies on Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, revealed no external trauma, according to the Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office. The couple, along with their dog, was found dead in their New Mexico home on Wednesday.
Gene Hackman, the 95-year-old Oscar-winning actor, and Betsy Arakawa, a 65-year-old classical pianist, had been deceased for several days before being discovered.
Figure 1: On February 27, 2025, law enforcement officers converse outside actor Gene Hackman’s Santa Fe, New Mexico, home. [Roberto Rosales/AP]
Unresolved Cause of Death
The official cause of death remains undetermined. Authorities are investigating several possibilities, including carbon monoxide poisoning, prescription medication overdose, or sudden medical incidents. Scattered pills were found near Arakawa, and a space heater was located near her body. Sheriff Adan Mendoza emphasized that toxicology reports will be key in determining what happened.
Also Read: Gene Hackman, Hollywood Icon, Dies at 95
Suspicious Circumstances and Investigation
While foul play is not suspected, investigators are treating the case with caution. A search warrant affidavit stated that the deaths were
“suspicious enough in nature to require a thorough investigation.”
Authorities found no signs of forced entry or theft, but the front door was open and unsecured. One of the couple’s dogs was found deceased, while two others were healthy. The Santa Fe Sheriff’s Office is conducting further tests, with final autopsy reports expected in 4-6 weeks.
911 Call and Discovery
A caretaker discovered the bodies and made a 911 call just before 2 p.m. local time on Wednesday. The caller, sounding distressed, said:
“No, dude, they’re not moving. Just send somebody out here really quick.”
Family’s Heartbreaking Statement
Gene Hackman’s daughters and granddaughter issued a statement:
“It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our father, Gene Hackman, and his wife, Betsy. He was loved and admired by millions around the world for his brilliant acting career, but to us, he was always just Dad and Grandpa. We will miss him sorely.”
His daughter, Leslie Hackman, revealed that she hadn’t spoken to him in months but noted that he had been in good physical condition before his death. She credited Betsy Arakawa for taking excellent care of him and plans to travel to New Mexico once investigations progress.
Hollywood Reacts to Hackman’s Death
Hollywood has been shaken by the news. Francis Ford Coppola described Hackman as a “great artist”, while George Takei called him “one of the true giants of the screen.”
The Academy Awards will honor Hackman in its “In Memoriam” segment this Sunday, with discussions about an on-stage tribute featuring a notable Hollywood figure.
Gene Hackman’s Legacy
A Career Marked by Excellence
Gene Hackman’s legendary career spanned five decades, earning him two Academy Awards and five nominations. Some of his most iconic films include:
- “The French Connection” (1971) – Oscar-winning performance as Popeye Doyle.
- “Unforgiven” (1992) – Best Supporting Actor Oscar as Little Bill Daggett.
- “Superman” (1978, 1980, 1987) – Played the infamous Lex Luthor.
- “The Conversation” (1974) – A masterclass in psychological drama.
- “Hoosiers” (1986) – One of the greatest sports movies of all time.
Net Worth and Retirement
Hackman, with a net worth of US$80 million (A$128 million, retired from acting in 2004. He spent his final years in Santa Fe, living privately with Betsy Arakawa and focusing on writing.
Unanswered Questions and Ongoing Investigation
Authorities continue to investigate key mysteries, including whether carbon monoxide poisoning, prescription medications, or an undetected medical condition played a role. The open front door and the survival of two dogs while another died also remain unexplained.
Sheriff Adan Mendoza assured that the investigation will be “thorough and accurate.” The world now awaits the final reports, seeking closure for the loss of a cinematic legend.
