Additional Coverage:
Santa Fe, NM—Hollywood is mourning the loss of two-time Oscar winner Gene Hackman, who was found deceased in his Santa Fe home along with his wife, Betsy Arakawa, on Wednesday, February 26. Academy Award organizers are reportedly working to include a tribute to the acclaimed actor in this weekend’s ceremony.
While the exact cause of death is still under investigation and may take weeks to determine, authorities have confirmed the presence of medication at the scene. The couple’s bodies were reportedly partially mummified, suggesting they had been deceased for some time before being discovered.
A deceased dog was also found on the property. A neighbor’s call to emergency services led to the discovery.
Hackman’s daughter, Leslie Anne Hackman, has stated the family is awaiting the official determination of the cause of death from law enforcement. Initial reports indicate Arakawa was found in a bathroom with a nearby space heater and scattered pills. The position of the heater led officials to speculate she may have fallen.
Hackman is remembered for his iconic roles in films like The French Connection and Unforgiven, both of which earned him Academy Awards, BAFTAs, and Golden Globe Awards. Actress Sally Kirkland, who worked with Hackman on the 1975 film Bite the Bullet, praised his talent and respect for women, expressing her sadness at his passing. She confidently stated her belief that the Academy would honor him during the upcoming Oscars ceremony.