Gene Hackman, 95, and his wife Betsy Arakawa, who was three decades his junior, have died under mysterious circumstances. The couple, known for their private lives, were found dead in their New Mexico home, with scattered pills found next to Arakawa.
Hackman, an Oscar-winning actor, was a beloved member of the Santa Fe community, and friends described him as “interesting, funny, very intelligent.” Arakawa, a classical pianist, was also well-liked for her kindness and wit. The couple met over 30 years ago and were often spotted in town at their favorite restaurants or at Arakawa’s shop.
Friends remembered Hackman as down-to-earth and generous, frequently gifting art to friends and donating his own work to charity auctions. He served on the board of the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum and was a vocal supporter of the arts.
New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham called Hackman a “treasured New Mexican resident” who brought characters to life with unmatched authenticity. Santa Fe Mayor Alan Webber praised the couple’s kind nature, saying they were “just down-to-earth people, part of the community.”
The cause of death has not been released, and officials are investigating the circumstances surrounding their deaths. Hackman and Arakawa’s families have also extended their condolences to fans around the world.
Source: https://edition.cnn.com/2025/03/02/us/gene-hackman-betsy-arakawa-santa-fe/index.html