Legendary actor Gene Hackman, 95, was found dead alongside his wife Betsy Arakawa, 63, and their dog in their Santa Fe home. The cause of death remains unclear, though their daughter Elizabeth Hackman suspects carbon monoxide poisoning. “The house is fairly modern… but we don’t know if there were any issues with gas leaks,” she told TMZ.
Authorities conducted a welfare check after a neighbor’s concern, finding the bodies and ensuring no lingering toxic fumes. The investigation is ongoing, with no signs of foul play so far.
Hackman retired in 2004, settling in New Mexico, where he pursued painting. Elizabeth described his retirement as peaceful, revealing his favorite film was The French Connection. He appeared in over 70 films during his four-decade career.
In 2009, Hackman cited health concerns as the reason for leaving Hollywood, saying, “The doctor advised me that my heart wasn’t in the kind of shape that I should be putting it under any stress.”
The Hackman family continues to grieve as they await further answers. The world mourns the loss of a film legend whose work left an indelible mark on Hollywood.