Gene Hackman, the acclaimed two-time Oscar-winning actor renowned for his roles in films like The French Connection and Unforgiven, was found dead alongside his wife, pianist Betsy Arakawa, and their dog at their New Mexico residence. Local authorities from the Santa Fe County Sheriff’s office reported the discovery on the afternoon of February 27, with concerns raised about the circumstances surrounding their deaths.

At age 95, Hackman had enjoyed a legendary acting career spanning over six decades, marked by intense performances that often drew on his personal experiences. His wife, 63, reportedly died alongside him, and both were found in a state of decomposition, with no signs of external injury. According to Sheriff Adan Mendoza, “foul play is not suspected as a factor” initially, but the investigation is ongoing, and officials have characterized the circumstances as “suspicious” due to the condition of the bodies.

Witnesses reported finding the door to their home unlocked and saw pills scattered next to Arakawa's body, which was found in the bathroom. Hackman's body was located in another room with sunglasses next to him, indicating a potential sudden fall. An investigation revealed that a German Shepherd was found dead in the bathroom, with two other healthy dogs at the property, leading to more questions regarding the timeline of events leading to their deaths.

Preliminary tests indicated that the couple tested negative for carbon monoxide, which their family had initially suggested might be a factor in their demise. Sheriff Mendoza has pointed to ongoing toxicology tests to understand better what might have contributed to the deaths and stated that Hackman's pacemaker recorded its last activity on February 17, 2025.

The actor's illustrious career began with his breakthrough role as Buck Barrow in Bonnie and Clyde (1967), and he went on to win his first Academy Award for playing detective Jimmy "Popeye" Doyle in The French Connection (1971). He received critical acclaim as small-town sheriff “Little Bill” Daggett in the Clint Eastwood film Unforgiven (1992), marking another Oscar win.

In a poignant statement, Hackman's daughters said, “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. We will miss him sorely and are devastated by the loss,” expressing their grief over this tragic event.

The investigation remains active as authorities seek to clarify the couple's final days, with the sheriff noting the challenge posed by their low profile and private nature. For ongoing updates on this story, follow South China Morning Post.