Hollywood legend Gene Hackman, 95, and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, 65, were found deceased in their New Mexico home on February 26, with authorities confirming no signs of foul play. The couple’s deaths appear to have occurred days apart, based on forensic and electronic evidence.
Hackman, a two-time Academy Award winner, reportedly passed away due to hypertensive cardiovascular disease, with Alzheimer’s disease listed as a contributing factor. Arakawa, a former concert pianist and businesswoman, succumbed to hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, according to New Mexico State Chief Medical Examiner Dr. Heather Jarrell.
Pet Dog Found Deceased in Bathroom Crate
One of the couple’s dogs, Zinna—short for Zinfandel—was discovered in a crate inside the bathroom near Arakawa’s body. Veterinary reports indicate the dog likely died from starvation and dehydration, though decomposition made it difficult to fully assess changes in the organs. Lab results ruled out trauma, poisoning, or infectious disease as factors in its death.
The couple’s two other dogs were found roaming the property when first responders arrived. According to reports, they led authorities to Hackman’s location.
Timeline of Events and Cause of Death
Investigators believe Arakawa passed away first, as her last recorded phone and email activity was on February 11, the same day she was last seen in public. Hackman is estimated to have died a week later on February 18, based on pacemaker data, though forensic experts emphasized that pinpointing the exact times of death remains scientifically unreliable.
While the home was tested for carbon monoxide, only a minor leak was detected, deemed insignificant by officials.
A Legacy of Cinematic Greatness
Hackman, whose acting career spanned over six decades, was known for his everyman charisma and gripping performances. His breakout role as Jimmy Doyle in The French Connection (1971) earned him an Academy Award for Best Actor, while his portrayal of Little Bill Daggett in Unforgiven (1992) won him Best Supporting Actor.
He also received three additional Oscar nominations:
- Best Supporting Actor (Bonnie & Clyde, 1968)
- Best Supporting Actor (I Never Sang for My Father, 1971)
- Best Actor (Mississippi Burning, 1989)
Hackman is also fondly remembered for his roles as Lex Luthor in Superman (1978) and Superman II (1980), Coach Norman Dale in Hoosiers (1986), and Royal Tenenbaum in The Royal Tenenbaums (2001).
Hackman and Arakawa had been married for 34 years, sharing a private life together away from Hollywood in New Mexico.
Authorities continue to finalize their reports, though the investigation confirms no evidence of criminal activity .
