Police Share New Details On Death Of Gene Hackman And Wife Saying They Had Been ‘Dead For Some Time’

Legendary actor Gene Hackman, 95, and his wife Betsy Arakawa, 63, were found dead in their Santa Fe home on Wednesday. Authorities confirmed their passing but have not yet determined a cause of death, though foul play is not suspected.

Santa Fe County Sheriff Adan Mendoza stated that officials are conducting a preliminary death investigation and awaiting a search warrant. Hackman and Arakawa were found in separate rooms—Hackman in a mudroom and Arakawa in a bathroom near a space heater. A prescription bottle and scattered pills were observed in the bathroom.

Hackman’s daughter, Elizabeth, told TMZ she suspects toxic fumes, possibly carbon monoxide poisoning. A gas company is assisting with the investigation. Reports suggest the couple had been deceased for an extended period, with their remains partially mummified.

Hackman, a two-time Oscar winner, starred in over 80 films, including Bonnie and Clyde, The French Connection, and Superman. He retired from acting in 2004 and pursued novel writing. He and Arakawa, a retired pianist, had been married since 1991.

The entertainment world mourns the loss of an iconic actor and his wife. RIP Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa.