Gene Hackman, the legendary actor whose career defined generations of cinema, was found dead alongside his wife, Betsy Arakawa, and their dog at their Santa Fe, New Mexico home on Wednesday, February 26. The Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the deaths on Thursday, with Sheriff Adan Mendoza stating there is no suspicion of foul play. The couple, discovered in their residence in the upscale Santa Fe Summit community, leaves behind a legacy now tinged with mystery as the investigation unfolds.

Hackman, 95, was an icon of American film, winning a Best Actor Oscar for his gritty portrayal of Jimmy "Popeye" Doyle in The French Connection (1971) and a Best Supporting Actor award for the ruthless Sheriff "Little" Bill Daggett in Unforgiven (1992). His six-decade career boasted standout roles in Bonnie and Clyde (1967), Superman (1978) as Lex Luthor, and The Royal Tenenbaums (2001), showcasing his rare blend of intensity and everyman charm. Retiring after Welcome to Mooseport in 2004, Hackman settled in Santa Fe with Arakawa, a classical pianist he married in 1991, turning to writing novels like Pursuit (2013).

The cause of death remains unclear, though online speculation on X points to possibilities like carbon monoxide poisoning, given the dog’s demise alongside the couple. Sheriff Mendoza has not released further details but assured the public there’s no ongoing threat. Hackman, last seen in 2024 appearing fit at 94, is survived by three children from his first marriage to Faye Maltese. His sudden passing with Arakawa ends a remarkable life quietly lived, leaving Hollywood and fans mourning a titan whose work remains timeless.