Gene Hackman’s Family Issues Statement – Death “Suspicious”

Gene Hackman, the legendary Hollywood actor, has been found dead at 95 in his Santa Fe home, along with his wife, Betsy Arakawa, 63, and one of their pet dogs. According to a police search warrant, they were discovered in separate rooms and appeared to have been “dead for some time.”

Initially, Santa Fe County Sheriff Adan Mendoza stated that foul play wasn’t suspected, but an affidavit later ruled the deaths “suspicious,” prompting further investigation. Despite speculation, the document noted “no obvious signs of a gas leak.” Hackman’s daughter, Elizabeth Jean, had suspected carbon monoxide poisoning.

Hackman was one of Hollywood’s most celebrated actors, known for classics like The French Connection, The Conversation, and Superman. He won two Academy Awards for The French Connection and Unforgiven before stepping away from acting after The Royal Tenenbaums in 2001.

Tributes Pour in From Hollywood Stars

Many actors have paid tribute to Hackman. Bill Murray reflected on their time together in The Royal Tenenbaums, admitting Hackman could be “really difficult” but also “a great actor.” John Cusack, who starred with Hackman in Runaway Jury, called him “an all-time great” and praised his “searingly truthful” performances. Michael Chiklis mourned the loss of a “hero,” while Mel Brooks reminisced about casting Hackman in Young Frankenstein after he expressed a desire to try comedy.

Dan Aykroyd also shared memories of working with Hackman in Loose Cannons, joking about their shared laughter on set. “He only needed four instructions from directors,” Aykroyd recalled: “Louder. Softer. Faster. Slower.” Gwyneth Paltrow paid tribute by sharing a photo from The Royal Tenenbaums set. Meanwhile, Hackman’s daughters, Elizabeth and Leslie, and granddaughter, Annie, issued a heartfelt statement:

“He was loved and admired by millions around the world for his brilliant acting career, but to us he was always just Dad and Grandpa.”

Questions Remain About Their Passing

A 2004 interview with CNN’s Larry King resurfaced, in which Hackman admitted: “I have the normal fear of passing away.” He added, “I want to make sure that my wife and my family are taken care of.”

The sheriff confirmed that the couple had been deceased for “quite a while” before their bodies were found. Mendoza emphasized that autopsy and toxicology reports would be key in determining the cause of death.

A chilling 911 call released by TMZ revealed a distressed caretaker pleading for help. “Send somebody up here real quick,” he said, his voice shaking. Unable to enter the house, he described seeing them through the window. “No, dude, they’re not moving,” he insisted. “Just send somebody out here. Really quick.”

As the world mourns Gene Hackman, his legacy remains—one of talent, depth, and unforgettable performances that will continue to inspire generations.