Hollywood Legend Gene Hackman and Wife Found Dead in Santa Fe Home

Gene Hackman, the legendary two-time Academy Award-winning actor, and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, have been found dead at their home in Santa Fe, New Mexico. The bodies of the 95-year-old actor and his 63-year-old spouse were discovered on Wednesday afternoon in the Santa Fe Summit community.

 According to Santa Fe County Sheriff Adan Mendoza, there are no indications of foul play, and investigations are ongoing. "We are in the early stages of a death investigation and are awaiting the approval of a search warrant," Mendoza said in a statement.

 Hackman, who is best known for his performances in classics such as "The French Connection", "Unforgiven", and "The Royal Tenenbaums", had retreated from public life after retiring from acting in 2004. He made his retirement official in 2008, stating he no longer had any interest in returning to the screen, despite occasional offers. His last film appearance was in "Welcome to Mooseport" in 2004.

The couple, who had been married since 1991, were seen publicly together for the first time in years just last year. The pair were photographed enjoying a meal at Pappadeaux’s Seafood Kitchen in Santa Fe, where they appeared to be in good spirits. Prior to that, the couple had not been seen together in public since attending the 2003 Golden Globe Awards, where Hackman was honoured with the Cecil B. deMille Award.

The cause of their deaths remains undisclosed, and the authorities are awaiting further investigations. Fans across the globe have expressed their shock and paid tribute to the beloved actor on social media, with one posting on X: "RIP to an absolute legend."

Hackman had just celebrated his 95th birthday in January, marking a life of cinematic excellence and private retreat from the limelight. His death, along with that of his wife, has left many reflecting on his remarkable legacy both on and off the screen.