Gene Hackman, one of Hollywood’s most celebrated actors, has passed away at the age of 95. The French Connection star was found dead at his home in Santa Fe, New Mexico, alongside his wife, Betsy Arakawa, and their dog. Authorities confirmed their passing but stated that no foul play was suspected.
Hackman, who began his acting career later in life, became one of the most respected and bankable stars in Hollywood. Over five decades, he appeared in more than 80 films, winning two ‘Academy Awards’ and earning three more nominations. Known for playing tough, complex characters, he also showcased his versatility in comedy.
According to the BBC, Hackman’s breakthrough came with his role in ‘Bonnie’ and ‘Clyde’ (1967), where he played Buck Barrow, earning his first Oscar nomination. His defining role, however, was as Detective Jimmy “Popeye” Doyle in ‘The French Connection’ (1971), which won him his first Oscar for Best Actor.
Born Eugene Allen Hackman in 1930 in San Bernardino, California, he had a tough childhood. His parents divorced when he was young, and he was raised by various relatives before settling with his grandmother in Illinois. His father abandoned the family, and his mother tragically passed away in 1962.
At 16, Hackman lied about his age to join the U.S. Marines, serving for nearly five years as a radio operator in China. After his military service, he struggled to find direction, working as a doorman, cleaner, and even a disc jockey before pursuing acting.
At the Pasadena Playhouse, he and classmate Dustin Hoffman were voted “least likely to succeed.” Undeterred, he moved to New York, where he shared an apartment with Hoffman and Robert Duvall while trying to make it in theater and film.
Hackman quickly established himself as a major talent. Following The French Connection, he starred in critically acclaimed films such as ‘The Conversation’ (1974), ‘Night Moves’ (1975), and ‘Mississippi Burning’ (1988), the latter earning him another Oscar nomination.
He also showed his comedic side in Young Frankenstein (1974) and played the iconic villain ‘Lex Luthor in Superman’ (1978) and its sequels. His second Oscar came for his role as the ruthless sheriff in ‘Unforgiven‘ (1992), a Clint Eastwood-directed Western that won Best Picture.
Hackman retired from acting in 2004 after Welcome to Mooseport, following his doctor’s advice due to heart-related health concerns. He then focused on writing, co-authoring historical fiction novels and later publishing books on his own.
In a rare interview, he admitted to enjoying the solitude of writing, comparing it to acting but with more creative control.
After leaving Hollywood, he led a quiet life in New Mexico with his wife, Betsy Arakawa, whom he married in 1991. The couple maintained a low profile, away from the spotlight.
Gene Hackman’s legacy as one of Hollywood’s greatest actors is undeniable. His powerful performances, ability to portray deeply human characters, and lasting impact on cinema will continue to inspire generations of actors and movie lovers alike.
