Legendary Actor Gene Hackman and Wife Betsy Arakawa Pass Away Just Days Apart

Gene Hackman, 95, and his wife Betsy Arakawa, 65, have both passed away in their Santa Fe home. Betsy died from hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, while Hackman's death was attributed to coronary artery disease and Alzheimer's complications.

Oscar-winning actor Gene Hackman has died peacefully of natural causes at the age of 95, just a week after the passing of his wife, Betsy Arakawa, who was 65. The New Mexico medical investigator revealed that Betsy succumbed to hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS), a rare disease resulting from rodent exposure.

Hackman passed away in their shared residence in Santa Fe due to coronary artery disease aggravated by advanced Alzheimer's disease, which had been affecting him for some time. Authorities noted that he likely did not realize his wife had died just days earlier, as she was believed to have passed away around February 11, according to Dr. Heather Jarrell from the New Mexico Medical Investigator's Office.

During a recent press gathering, Dr. Jarrell disclosed that Betsy's final activities included visits to a grocery store and a pharmacy on the day she died. Sadly, she held the account of her health, which deteriorated due to HPS—a respiratory ailment linked to infected rodents. Hackman's ongoing battle with heart disease and his Alzheimer’s might have shielded him from understanding his wife's demise.

New Mexico's Public Health Veterinarian, Erin Phipps, emphasized the rarity of hantavirus infections and stated that although evidence of rodent activities was found at the couple’s property, the risk in their home was evaluated to be low. Hackman's medical tests returned negative for hantavirus.

Their discovery came to light when neighborhood security officials conducted a welfare check and found both deceased in their home, noted to be in an advanced state of decomposition, illustrating the intensity of their final moments.

A preliminary investigation ruled out foul play, with deputies finding no signs of forced entry. They also reported a deceased dog in the home, while two others were alive.

Gene Hackman enjoyed an illustrious film career, winning two Academy Awards and portraying memorable roles, such as Lex Luthor in the classic Superman films and FBI agent in Mississippi Burning. After stepping back from Hollywood in 2004, he sought a quieter life in New Mexico, sharing three children from his earlier marriage.

The actor's legacy remains significant as fans and friends remember his impressive contributions to cinema and the warmth he displayed in his long-lasting relationship with Arakawa.