Gene Hackman and Wife Betsy Arakawa Found Dead in Santa Fe Home Hollywood legend Gene Hackman, 95, and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, 63, were discovered dead in their Santa Fe, New Mexico, residence on February 26, 2025. Authorities from the Santa Fe County Sheriff's Office reported that their bodies were located in separate rooms, with one of their dogs also found deceased. Investigators have not found any immediate signs of foul play or injuries, but prescription medication and scattered pills were present at the scene. No gas leaks were detected, and autopsy and toxicology tests are underway to determine the cause of death. Hackman, a two-time Academy Award winner known for films like The French Connection and Unforgiven, had retired from acting decades ago, living a quiet life with Arakawa, a former classical pianist. Their sudden passing has led to an outpouring of tributes from the entertainment industry, remembering Hackman’s immense contributions to cinema.