Gene Hackman: Famous actor mysteriously passed away at his home, followed by his wife a week later

Gene Hackman, full name Eugene Allen Hackman, was born on January 30, 1930 in San Bernardino, California, USA. He is one of the greatest actors of his generation, known for his natural acting ability.

Gene Hackman's career spanned more than four decades, with a series of memorable roles in classic films. However, the passing of him and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, in February 2025 left many questions and sadness in the hearts of fans.

Hackman grew up in a dysfunctional home. His parents divorced when he was 13, and his father abandoned the family. Hackman left home at 16 and joined the United States Marine Corps, where he served for more than four years as a communications officer. After leaving the service, he studied journalism and television production at the University of Illinois through a veterans assistance program, but later decided to pursue an acting career.

Hackman began his acting career at the Pasadena Playhouse in California, where he met Dustin Hoffman. Both were considered “least likely to succeed,” but they proved otherwise. Hackman moved to New York and began acting in Off-Broadway plays, before landing his first Broadway role in 1964 in “Any Wednesday.” This role paved the way for him to break into Hollywood.

Hackman quickly gained attention for his role in Bonnie and Clyde (1967), where he played Buck Barrow and received his first Oscar nomination for Best Supporting Actor. From there, his career skyrocketed with a series of memorable roles. He won his first Oscar for Best Actor for his role as Jimmy "Popeye" Doyle in The French Connection (1971). This role not only confirmed Hackman's talent but also made him a top star.

Throughout his career, Hackman has starred in classic films such as "The Conversation" (1974), "Superman" (1978) as the villain Lex Luthor, and "Unforgiven" (1992), which earned him his second Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. He is also known for his roles in "Mississippi Burning" (1988), "Hoosiers" (1986), and "The Royal Tenenbaums" (2001). Hackman is a versatile actor, able to play a variety of roles, from heroes to villains to psychologically complex characters.

Hackman decided to retire in 2004 after the film "Welcome to Mooseport." After leaving the spotlight, he focused on writing and published several novels. He lives a quiet life in Santa Fe, New Mexico, with his second wife, Betsy Arakawa, whom he married in 1991.

However, the deaths of Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa in February 2025 shocked the public. Betsy Arakawa, 65, died on February 11 from hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, a rare disease transmitted by rats. Hackman, 95, reportedly died on February 18, a week after his wife's death, from heart disease and complications from late-stage Alzheimer's disease. Both were found in their Santa Fe home on February 26, in a state of disrepair.

The passing of Hackman and his wife left many unanswered questions. Hackman reportedly was unaware that his wife had died due to severe Alzheimer’s. He lived in isolation in his final days at home, not eating properly and not communicating with anyone. One of their dogs was also found dead in the house, while two others were found wandering around the area.

The loss of Gene Hackman is a great loss not only for his family and friends, but also for the film industry. He was a Hollywood icon, a talented and dedicated actor who left behind a huge artistic legacy. Hackman will be remembered not only for his outstanding performances but also for his humility and dedication to his craft.

According to documents collected, the Hollywood legend chose Betsy Arakawa as the sole heir to his life's fortune, estimated at $80 million. The will was made in 1995 and Hackman's three biological children - son Christopher and two daughters Leslie and Elizabeth - were not named. According to regulations, this will takes effect if Mr. Hackman dies before his wife. However, the results of the medical examination announced on March 7 determined that Ms. Arakawa died before her husband.

Although he has long since stepped away from the limelight, Gene Hackman remains a revered figure in the film industry. His career is a testament to his talent and relentless drive. His passing, along with that of his wife, is a reminder of the fragility of life and the value of moments spent with loved ones.

Gene Hackman will forever be remembered as one of the greatest actors of the 20th century, a man who devoted his life to his craft and left an indelible mark on audiences. His legacy will live on through classic films and the stories of his life.