Hollywood legend Gene Hackman has passed away at the age of 95, just days after his wife, Betsy Arakawa, died from a rare respiratory illness. Officials revealed that Hackman, who had been battling advanced Alzheimer’s disease, was likely unaware of his wife’s passing before succumbing to coronary artery disease.
The New Mexico Medical Investigator’s Office confirmed that Arakawa, a classical pianist, died on February 11 from hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS), a rare but often fatal disease caused by exposure to rodent droppings. Hackman passed away on February 18, with Alzheimer’s listed as a contributing factor.
Cause of Death and Shocking Details
Dr. Heather Jarrell, the state medical examiner, stated that surveillance footage and forensic evidence indicated Arakawa had contracted hantavirus before her sudden death. The disease, while uncommon, has a 42% fatality rate in New Mexico, with just 136 reported cases over the past 50 years. Hackman, however, tested negative for the virus, confirming he did not contract the illness from his wife.
Due to the severity of his Alzheimer’s, medical experts believe Hackman did not realize his wife had passed away. Authorities found that he had not eaten for several days before his death, but there were no signs of dehydration or external injuries. Officials ultimately ruled that Hackman died of heart disease, exacerbated by his declining health.
Bodies Discovered in Their Santa Fe Home
The couple was found deceased inside their $3.8 million Santa Fe home after a neighborhood security officer conducted a welfare check. Hackman was discovered in a side room near the kitchen, while Arakawa was found in the bathroom. Authorities confirmed there were no signs of forced entry or foul play.
Investigators also found pills scattered near Arakawa’s body, though they did not confirm whether they contributed to her death. One of the couple’s three dogs was discovered dead inside a crate near Arakawa, while the remaining two pets survived. Officials are still investigating the cause of the dog’s death.
Authorities initially examined the home for potential carbon monoxide poisoning or gas leaks but ruled out environmental factors. A search warrant affidavit noted that Hackman’s walking cane and sunglasses were found nearby, suggesting he may have collapsed suddenly.
Gene Hackman’s Unforgettable Legacy
Hackman was a two-time Academy Award winner, earning widespread acclaim for his roles in The French Connection(1971) and Unforgiven (1992). His career spanned over 100 films, including Superman, Mississippi Burning, Bonnie and Clyde, and The Royal Tenenbaums.
After retiring from acting in 2004, Hackman lived a private life in New Mexico. His passing marks the end of an era, as Hollywood mourns one of its greatest talents.
His family released a statement expressing their grief: “It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our father, Gene Hackman, and his wife, Betsy. He was loved and admired by millions, but to us, he was just Dad and Grandpa. We are devastated by this loss.”
A Love Story That Ended Too Soon
Hackman met Arakawa in the 1980s when she worked at a California gym. They married in 1991 and remained together for more than 30 years. Hackman is survived by his three adult children from his previous marriage to Faye Maltese.
As Hollywood pays tribute to a cinematic legend, Gene Hackman’s influence on the film industry will remain timeless.
Jaja has a degree in journalism and took classes in international law and business communication. Her career spans roles at prominent international media outlets, including International Business Times, Celebeat and Delightful Philippines. As a news editor, Jaja covered a wide range of beats, including legal, business, economy, cryptocurrency, personal finance, gaming, technology, and entertainment.