Hackman's Death Follows Wife's Passing

A medical investigation into the death of Oscar-winning actor Gene Hackman reveals he likely died of cardiovascular disease, complicated by Alzheimer's, a week after his wife, Betsy Arakawa, succumbed to hantavirus. This update from New Mexico Office of the Medical Investigator Chief Medical Examiner Heather Jarrell clarifies the circumstances surrounding the couple's deaths, which were initially deemed suspicious.

Arakawa, 65, is believed to have died on February 11th, fifteen days before the bodies of both she and Hackman, 95, were discovered in their New Mexico home. The CDC classifies hantavirus as a potentially fatal illness spread primarily through rodent contact.

Sheriff Adan Mendoza stated that security footage shows Arakawa visiting a local Sprouts market and CVS on the day of her death, and that she also had an appointment with a massage therapist. Hackman's pacemaker recorded its final event on February 17th, suggesting his death occurred a week after his wife's. Both were found in separate rooms, along with a deceased dog, with no evidence of carbon monoxide poisoning or gas leaks. Autopsy results confirmed the absence of carbon monoxide.

The news of Hackman and Arakawa's deaths, which broke on February 27th, shocked the film community. Hackman's illustrious career included two Oscars and iconic roles in films such as Superman, The French Connection, and Unforgiven. He retired from acting in 2004, citing his doctor's advice to reduce stress on his heart.

For a retrospective on Hackman's remarkable filmography, explore our list of his 20 best films.