Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, were found dead in their Santa Fe, New Mexico home. This tragic event occurred on February 26th. Hackman retired from acting many years ago, and he seldom appeared in public, sometimes personally or alongside his wife.
The lovers were last seen together for the first time in two decades in March 2024, when they had a meal at Pappadeaux’s Seafood Kitchen in Santa Fe. The couple preferred keeping a low profile and were rarely spotted or talked about. Hackman particularly enjoyed Betsy’s company because she cherished their quiet moments.
Gene Hackman’s public appearances
Gene Hackman stepped away from the spotlight in 2004 and said he would only consider acting if it could be done in his house without any disturbance. He focused on writing and spending time with his wife. He has rarely been seen outside except around his house doing everyday chores. In March 2023, Gene Hackman was spotted working in his yard at a restaurant and a gas station.
In May 2022, Gene Hackman attended a Broadway Confidential show at Santa Fe’s Lensic Center for Performing Arts. Ana Gasteyer and Sirius XM Radio host Seth Rudetsky also participated. Seth later shared a picture of the three on his social media account.
Hackman was last seen in March 2024, when he was 94, with his wife in New Mexico. He wore a gray vest with green cargo pants, while Betsy wore a patterned shirt with dark blue jeans. Hackman was walking with a cane while holding Betsy’s arm, and both were photographed outside the restaurant, where they had dinner.
Tribute from fans
As the news of Hackman’s and his wife’s sudden deaths fills the air, fans are expressing their grievances over the loss of the Hollywood legend and his wife. Autopsies, and investigations are ongoing, but presently, the initial results of their investigations did not point to any specific cause of death.
However, the police have ruled the situation as “foul play” and are conducting more searches. As the families of Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa mourn their passing, loved ones on social media also sympathize and are sorrowful about the situation.