Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], February 27: Veteran actor Anupam Kher has paid a heartfelt tribute to the legendary Oscar-winning actor Gene Hackman, who was found dead at his New Mexico home.
Taking to his X account on Thursday, Kher shared a series of pictures of Hackman along with a touching note in which he recalled a memorable experience from his past. Kher shared how, while shooting for his film Aakhri Raasta in 1985, he discovered Hackman’s performance in the movie I Never Sang for My Father on TV. The film, featuring a young Hackman, deeply moved Kher, making him cry his heart out.
In his note, Kher wrote, “The year was 1985. I was shooting for Aakhri Raasta in Chennai. One day, I packed up early and went to the hotel. There was an old black-and-white movie, I Never Sang for My Father, on TV. A father and son story! I started watching it. The actor playing the son was young Gene Hackman. He was brilliant. I cried my heart out! Today, I know Gene was old. Everybody has to go. But tears did roll out for the actor the world admired the most. Adieu, sir! I learned a lot from your performances! Om Shanti.”
Hackman, 95, was confirmed dead at his New Mexico home, along with his wife Betsy Arakawa and their dog. Authorities have not identified a cause of death yet, but there is no immediate indication of foul play.
Hackman, a two-time Academy Award winner for The French Connection and Unforgiven, was one of the most honored actors in the industry. Throughout his career, he earned five Oscar nominations, two BAFTA Awards, and four Golden Globes. His notable works included The French Connection II, The Firm, The Poseidon Adventure, and The Conversation. Hackman also wrote three novels and continued to act until his retirement in 2004.
Hackman had been married twice, first to Faye Maltese and then to Arakawa in 1991. Arakawa was a classical pianist. Hackman is survived by three children.