Hollywood actor Gene Hackman has been found dead alongside his wife and their dog at their home in Santa Fe, New Mexico.
Oscar-winner Gene was 95 years old. His wife, classical pianist Betsy Arakawa, was 64.
The couple were found dead inside their home. Their pet dog was also found dead inside the house.
Gene Hackman and wife found dead
Police have issued a statement following the deaths.
Santa Fe County Sheriff Adan Mendoza confirmed just after midnight that the couple had died.
An iconic actor who defined a generation.
He said there was no immediate indication of foul play. He did not provide a cause of death or say when the couple might have died.
They had been married since 1991 and, in recent years, led a reclusive life.
In a statement, the sheriff said there was “no immediate indication of foul play”.
The Hollywood legend had a career that spanned more than six decades. He won a number of gongs including an Oscar for Best Actor in 1972 for his role in The French Connection. He also won an Academy Award for his role in Unforgiven.
Police statement in full
Santa Fe County Sheriff Adan Mendoza shared: “On February 26, 2025 at approximately 1:45 p.m., Santa Fe County Sheriff’s deputies were dispatched to an address on Old Sunset Trail in Hyde Park where Gene Hackman, 95 and his wife Betsy Arakawa, 64 and a dog were found deceased.
“Foul play is not suspected as a factor in those deaths at this time however exact cause of death has not been determined. This is an active and ongoing investigation by the Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office.”
Speaking to The Sun, he added: “All I can say is that we’re in the middle of a preliminary death investigation, waiting on approval of a search warrant.”
Speaking to GB News, he also said: “I want to assure the community and neighbourhood that there’s no immediate danger to anyone.”
Tributes pour in
Shocked fans have started reacting to the news on social media.
One posted: “My thoughts to the family of Gene Hackman and his wife found dead with their dog at home . It’s a terrible tragedy.”
Another added: “Rest in Peace Gene Hackman.”
“Obviously Gene Hackman was old. I expected this at any time. But not in some weird way like this with his wife and dog,” said another fan.
“RIP Gene Hackman. An iconic actor who defined a generation,” said another.
“OMG. So shocked at the news about Gene Hackman and his wife, both found dead. Heartbreaking,” said another.
Read more: Going For Gold host Henry Kelly dies aged 78 as family share statement
Share your tributes on our Facebook page @EntertainmentDailyFix.