The world was left stunned by the passing of Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa. Their tragic deaths have ignited waves of speculation, leading to various theories and discussions as details continue to unfold. The couple, who had lived a quiet life in Santa Fe, New Mexico, were beloved by their close family and friends. However, their sudden and unexpected deaths have left many questioning the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.

Following this shocking news, Gene Hackman’s daughters, Elizabeth and Leslie, were seen out in public for the first time. Despite the tragedy, the sisters appeared to be in good spirits as they dined together in California. Photographs captured them arriving at a restaurant in a gray SUV, their demeanor sparking mixed reactions online. Some social media users criticized them for looking too happy, while others pointed out that people grieve in different ways.

One online commenter remarked, “I know people grieve differently, but when your dad was found like he was and with their deaths being investigated, they look way too happy and relaxed.” Another shared, “Their smiles look awfully disturbing,” while a third asked, “They look very happy… why?!” A fourth person added, “This whole thing is just weird and strange,” while a fifth speculated, “Excited for the life insurance coming.” Another user bluntly remarked, “Looking like they just hit the lottery.”

Leslie had previously stated in an interview that she and her father had been close but had not spoken in a couple of months before his passing, reassuring that everything had seemed normal at the time. She described her father as a private person who enjoyed a quiet life in Santa Fe, rarely making public appearances in his later years.

Gene Hackman and his wife were discovered deceased in their Santa Fe, New Mexico home on February 26, 2025. The couple’s bodies were found in separate rooms, with their neighbor and caretaker notifying emergency services upon discovering them. The property, valued at $3.8 million, was known for its seclusion, adding to the mystery surrounding their deaths. The couple’s home was found in a state that suggested they had been deceased for at least a day before they were discovered. Their deaths have prompted an ongoing police investigation, with authorities deeming the circumstances suspicious enough to warrant a thorough search.

In a statement, Hackman’s daughters and granddaughter expressed their devastation, remembering him as a beloved father and grandfather. “It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our father, Gene Hackman, and his wife, Betsy,” the statement read. “He was loved and admired by millions around the world for his brilliant acting career, but to us, he was always just Dad and Grandpa. We will miss him sorely and are devastated by the loss.”

The family continues to await further details from law enforcement to determine the official cause of death. Leslie speculated that toxic fumes, possibly from a carbon monoxide leak, could have been a factor, especially given that one of their three dogs also perished in the house. However, she noted that authorities had not found immediate evidence of a gas leak, and more tests were needed to determine the cause.

According to Leslie, their father had been in excellent health for his age. At 95, he maintained a routine of yoga and Pilates several times a week and had not undergone any major surgeries in recent months. She added that losing him was heartbreaking, though not entirely shocking due to his advanced age.

Authorities revealed that the bodies had likely been in the home for at least a day before they were found. A search warrant affidavit detailed unusual findings at the scene, including an open pill bottle near Arakawa, a displaced space heater, and a deceased dog inside a closet. While foul play has not been ruled out, there were no obvious signs of a gas leak or forced entry. Toxicology tests have been ordered, and preliminary autopsies showed no external trauma on either individual.

Santa Fe County Sheriff Adan Mendoza described the situation as “suspicious enough in nature to require a thorough search and investigation.” He confirmed that toxicology results were pending, which could take weeks to process. While no clear evidence of foul play has been found, authorities are proceeding with caution to ensure no detail is overlooked.

Gene Hackman, a legendary actor, was known for his roles in films such as The French Connection, Superman, and Unforgiven. His powerful performances earned him two Academy Awards, and his career spanned several decades before his retirement in the early 2000s. His contributions to Hollywood left a lasting impact, and many of his films remain classics in the industry.

After stepping away from Hollywood, Hackman settled in Santa Fe with Arakawa, his wife since 1991, and dedicated himself to writing novels and enjoying a quiet life away from the spotlight. He rarely made public appearances, though he occasionally granted interviews about his books and past acting career. Fans and celebrities have taken to social media to honor Hackman’s legacy, reflecting on his immense talent and influence.

Director Francis Ford Coppola, who worked with Hackman on The Conversation, shared his condolences. “The loss of a great artist, always cause for both mourning and celebration: Gene Hackman, a great actor, inspiring and magnificent in his work and complexity. I mourn his loss and celebrate his existence and contribution,” Coppola wrote.

Award-winning actress Valerie Perrine, who starred alongside Hackman in Superman, also paid tribute. “The great Gene Hackman has passed away. He was a genius & one of the greatest to grace the silver screen. I had the honor of working with him on Superman. His performances are legendary. His talent will be missed. Goodbye, my sweet Lex. Till we meet again,” she posted.

The BAFTAs also honored Hackman, stating, “We are saddened to hear that the much-celebrated actor Gene Hackman has died aged 95. Hackman’s illustrious career spanned over six decades and earned him BAFTA wins for his work in Unforgiven, The French Connection, and The Poseidon Adventure.”

As the investigation continues, authorities are closely examining all possibilities. With Hackman and Arakawa found in separate rooms and signs suggesting that they had been deceased for an extended period, questions remain about what truly happened in their home. The Hackman family continues to seek answers, holding on to memories of a man who left an indelible mark on both the film industry and the lives of those who knew him personally. The coming weeks may provide more clarity, but for now, Hollywood and fans around the world mourn the loss of a cinematic legend.