Family of Gene Hackman share statement amid death investigation
The family of late actor Gene Hackman have released a statement in the wake of his death, saying they are “devastated” about his tragic passing alongside his wife, Betsy Arakawa.
Hackman and Arakawa were found dead in their home on February 26th by local police after a search warrant was issued following a call from a concerned neighbour. The police statement initially claimed no foul play, with Hackman’s daughter suggesting the cause may have been carbon monoxide poisoning.
However, an affidavit published by New Mexico then regarded the developments as “suspicious” on the grounds that their front door was open without signs of forced entry, their other two dogs were on the property unharmed, both Hackman and Arakawa being found in separate rooms, and a scattering of pills located around the latter’s body with “no obvious signs of a gas leak” (via Variety).
As the investigation continues, figures from the entertainment industry honour Hackman’s life and legacy, sharing memories and heartfelt words in tribute. Hackman’s two daughters, Elizabeth and Leslie, and his granddaughter, Annie, also shared their “sadness” upon learning of his passing.
“It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our father, Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy,” they wrote, per The New York Post. Continuing: “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.”
Hackman enjoyed a long career, becoming one of Hollywood’s biggest and most respected names in the process. Despite earning success a little later in life, he persevered against expectations, earning a reputation as one of the most versatile players in the game. He earned his first Oscar for his role as Jimmy ‘Popeye’ Doyle in The French Connection, an achievement he later told New York Post was a “moment in a checkered career of hits and misses”.
Following his death, tributes poured in from all corners of the industry, including from filmmaker Francis Ford Coppola, who worked with Hackman on The Conversation: “The loss of a great artist is always cause for both mourning and celebration,” he wrote.
Coppola added: “Gene Hackman a great actor, inspiring and magnificent in his work and complexity. I mourn his loss, and celebrate his existence and contribution.”
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