Gene Hackman, the Hollywood legend, and his wife, classical pianist Betsy Arakawa, were found dead in their New Mexico home on February 26, 2025. Hackman’s daughter, Elizabeth, suspects their deaths may have been caused by carbon monoxide poisoning, although investigations are ongoing.
The couple, married for 34 years, were found in different rooms, and their dog also died under similar circumstances. Authorities have ruled out foul play and confirmed there were no gunshot wounds or other injuries.
Hackman, 95, retired from acting in 2004 and had health issues in later years. He had previously undergone heart surgery. Hackman and Arakawa led private lives after moving to Santa Fe in 1990.