Oscar-winning actor Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, have been found dead at their home in New Mexico, media outlets reported on Thursday. Santa Fe County Sheriff Adan Mendoza confirmed the discovery on Wednesday afternoon, stating that there were no immediate signs of foul play, although the cause of death has not been released. The couple, married since 1991, was found alongside their dog.
Hackman, 95, was best known for his role in “The French Connection” (1971), which earned him an Oscar for Best Actor. He won a second Academy Award for his portrayal of “Little Bill” in “Unforgiven” (1992). Arakawa, 63, was a classical pianist.
Hollywood director Francis Ford Coppola paid tribute to Hackman, calling him “a great actor, inspiring and magnificent in his work and complexity.”
Hackman, who had a storied career, retired in 2008, focusing on writing and painting after decades of success in film.
Photo: France24
