Gene Hackman, Oscar-winning actor known for key roles in classics, died from natural causes a week after his wife Betsy Arakawa passed away following a rare virus. The couple's health issues and their sudden passing have drawn attention and prompted an investigation.
Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa: Hollywood Icon and Spouse Pass Away Within Days
Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa: Hollywood Icon and Spouse Pass Away Within Days
The beloved actor and his wife tragically die just one week apart, leaving a significant legacy behind.
Gene Hackman, the celebrated actor known for his iconic roles, passed away of natural causes just one week after his wife, Betsy Arakawa, succumbed to a rare virus. According to a New Mexico medical investigator, Hackman, 95, died at his Santa Fe residence due to coronary artery disease, with Alzheimer's disease also contributing to his decline. Arakawa, 65, tragically lost her life to hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS), a serious respiratory disease linked to rodents.
Reports suggest that Arakawa likely passed away approximately a week before her husband’s death on January 11, while Hackman followed on January 18. Arakawa's last known activities included visiting local stores prior to her untimely death. Investigators revealed that Hackman’s advanced stage of Alzheimer's may have left him unaware of his wife's passing.
Medical experts confirmed that Hackman suffered from chronic heart disease and had experienced recent health complications. Betsy had contracted HPS, an illness transmitted through rodent droppings and saliva, with public health officials noting the rarity of such infections in the state. The couple's home was reportedly secure; investigations revealed no signs of foul play or forced entry, dismissing concerns around their sudden deaths.
Alongside their bodies, a deceased dog was discovered, while the couple's other pets remained unharmed. Gene Hackman is remembered not only for his outstanding film roles—winning Academy Awards for his performances in “The French Connection” and “Unforgiven”—but also for enduring a lengthy career in Hollywood. His last film appearance was in 2004, as he transitioned towards a quieter life in New Mexico with Arakawa. Hackman leaves behind three children from an earlier marriage, along with cherished memories of his prolific acting career.
Reports suggest that Arakawa likely passed away approximately a week before her husband’s death on January 11, while Hackman followed on January 18. Arakawa's last known activities included visiting local stores prior to her untimely death. Investigators revealed that Hackman’s advanced stage of Alzheimer's may have left him unaware of his wife's passing.
Medical experts confirmed that Hackman suffered from chronic heart disease and had experienced recent health complications. Betsy had contracted HPS, an illness transmitted through rodent droppings and saliva, with public health officials noting the rarity of such infections in the state. The couple's home was reportedly secure; investigations revealed no signs of foul play or forced entry, dismissing concerns around their sudden deaths.
Alongside their bodies, a deceased dog was discovered, while the couple's other pets remained unharmed. Gene Hackman is remembered not only for his outstanding film roles—winning Academy Awards for his performances in “The French Connection” and “Unforgiven”—but also for enduring a lengthy career in Hollywood. His last film appearance was in 2004, as he transitioned towards a quieter life in New Mexico with Arakawa. Hackman leaves behind three children from an earlier marriage, along with cherished memories of his prolific acting career.
