Hollywood mourns the loss of Gene Hackman and wife Betsy Arakawa

Hollywood legend Gene Hackman and his wife, pianist Betsy Arakawa, were found dead Wednesday in their Santa Fe home.

NBC – Hollywood legend Gene Hackman, his wife, pianist Betsy Arakawa,  and their dog were found dead Wednesday in their Santa Fe home. A neighbor requested a welfare check, and authorities report no immediate signs of foul play but have not disclosed a cause of death.

Hackman, a two-time Academy Award winner, was known for his gripping performances in The French Connection, Superman, Hoosiers, Crimson Tide, and Unforgiven. After retiring in the early 2000s, he pursued a successful writing career, publishing his fifth book in 2013.
The couple lived a quiet life in Santa Fe, largely staying out of the public eye. As police investigate, Hollywood and fans remember Hackman’s remarkable career and lasting cinematic legacy.