The world is grieving the loss of legendary actor Gene Hackman, who was found deceased in his Santa Fe home on Wednesday. Alongside him were his wife, Betsy Arakawa, and their beloved dog, both of whom also tragically passed away. Hackman, 95, was celebrated for his remarkable career spanning decades, earning him numerous accolades and a revered place in Hollywood history. However, the unexpected passing of his wife, Betsy, at just 63 years old, has left many unanswered questions.
In a recent interview, Gene’s daughter, Elizabeth Jean Hackman, revealed that the family is still searching for answers regarding the tragic incident. One possible cause being considered is carbon monoxide poisoning. “The house is relatively modern, built in 2000,” Elizabeth shared. “We don’t know if there were any issues with gas leaks or if there were any recent service calls to the property.” Authorities were alerted when a concerned neighbor requested a welfare check after not seeing the couple for some time. Upon arrival, deputies discovered the bodies and were assisted by the gas company and fire department to ensure there were no lingering hazards that could pose a threat to others. Hackman’s passing marks the end of an era for Hollywood, as he was known for his powerful performances in films such as The French Connection, Unforgiven, and The Royal Tenenbaums. His work left an indelible impact on cinema, earning him two Academy Awards and the admiration of fans worldwide.