Washington [US], April 16: Legendary actor Gene Hackman and his wife, classical pianist Betsy Arakawa, were laid to rest in a private memorial service held in Santa Fe, New Mexico. The intimate gathering was attended by close family and friends, including their three children—Christopher, Elizabeth, and Leslie—who came together to honour the couple’s lives and legacy, according to People magazine.
The Hackmans were discovered deceased in their Santa Fe Summit residence on February 26. Authorities later confirmed that Betsy Arakawa had succumbed to hantavirus, a rare and potentially fatal disease transmitted through contact with infected rodent droppings. Gene Hackman, renowned for his storied Hollywood career, passed away soon after due to complications stemming from heart disease, hypertension, and advanced Alzheimer’s.
Also found with the couple was their pet dog Zinna, a kelpie mix, who tragically died from dehydration and starvation. Fortunately, two other dogs on the property were rescued and are now receiving care, People reported.
Gene Hackman, a two-time Academy Award winner best known for his roles in The French Connection, Unforgiven, and The Royal Tenenbaums, had retired from acting and public life in the early 2000s. He and Betsy, who married in 1991, were known for their quiet lifestyle in Santa Fe.
Their final public appearance together occurred in March 2024, when they were spotted dining at a local seafood restaurant, marking a rare moment in the public eye for the reclusive couple.
Suggested Tags:
Gene Hackman, Betsy Arakawa, Santa Fe Memorial, Veteran Actor, Hollywood Legends, Private Funeral, Hantavirus, Heart Disease, Alzheimer’s, People Magazine, Zinna the Dog, Academy Award Winner