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Tragic End to a Legendary Life: The Death of Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa in Santa Fe

Gene Hackman

The world lost a silver screen legend when renowned actor Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, were found dead in their Santa Fe home alongside their beloved dog. This shocking discovery has left both the public and authorities puzzled, prompting an ongoing investigation.

Gene Hackman, a two-time Academy Award winner, was best known for his unforgettable roles in classics like 'French Connection', 'Superman', and 'The Birdcage'. On February 26, 2025, Santa Fe authorities responded to a welfare check request from a concerned neighbor and discovered the deceased couple in their residence.

The couple, who were last seen publicly a year prior enjoying a dinner outing in Santa Fe, had maintained a low profile since Hackman's retirement from acting. Despite the absence of any immediate signs of foul play, the Santa Fe County Sheriff's Office has declared the investigation as 'active and ongoing', with the exact cause of death yet to be determined.

Family members and fans alike mourn the loss of Hackman, who leaves behind his children Christopher, Elizabeth, and Leslie. Hackman and Arakawa were married for over three decades and were known for their preference for privacy in their later years.

As the investigation unfolds, the world reminisces the remarkable contributions of Gene Hackman to the film industry and extends heartfelt condolences to his family.

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