Academy Award-winning actor Gene Hackman was discovered deceased in his New Mexico residence, alongside his wife Betsy Arakawa and their dog. The Santa Fe County Sheriff's Office indicated that the couple appeared to have passed away some time before their bodies were discovered. Though no evident wounds, such as gunshots, were reported, authorities noted the presence of scattered prescription medication near Arakawa and the suspicious circumstances prompted a detailed investigation. Local utility officials conducted tests on gas lines at the home, but found no leaks.

Following confirmation of their passing, many Hollywood legends shared memories and paid respect to Hackman. Clint Eastwood expressed deep personal sadness and praised Hackman for his intensity and strong instincts as an actor. Bill Murray commended Hackman's great talent, describing him fondly despite his tough exterior. Filmmaker Francis Ford Coppola called Hackman “inspiring and magnificent,” recognizing the profound loss his death represents to the performing arts world.

Gene Hackman's influential film career began with his breakthrough role in 1967's "Bonnie & Clyde," for which he earned an Oscar nomination. He achieved widespread fame after winning an Academy Award as NYPD detective Jimmy "Popeye" Doyle in "The French Connection" (1971). Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, he appeared in numerous iconic films including "Superman," "Scarecrow," and "The Poseidon Adventure." Hackman's later works also garnered critical acclaim, such as 1988's "Mississippi Burning," and Clint Eastwood’s 1992 western drama, "Unforgiven," which earned him another Oscar. His final noted performance was in Wes Anderson's well-received "The Royal Tenenbaums" in 2001, after which he retired from acting, preferring a quiet, private life writing historical fiction novels in Santa Fe.

Hackman's career had its share of struggles as well as monumental success. During his peak years, financial troubles jeopardized his stability, at one point leaving him millions in debt and dependent on borrowed transportation for industry appointments. Politically active, his progressive orientation placed him notably on President Richard Nixon’s list of political adversaries. Yet through such adversities, Hackman continued to triumph professionally, becoming widely respected both as a dramatic actor and, eventually, a comedic talent.

Hackman leaves behind three children—Christopher, Elizabeth, and Leslie—from his marriage to first wife Faye Maltese, who passed away in 2017. His former colleagues and friends remember the actor fondly, highlighting his extensive contributions and influence, as fans and the entertainment world mourn the loss of one of cinema's pillars.