The Hollywood film industry is reeling after the shocking discovery of Gene Hackman’s body alongside his much younger wife and their loyal pet. The iconic actor, 95, was found dead in his secluded Santa Fe home last week, with initial reports suggesting that he and his wife may have been deceased for up to ten days before authorities uncovered the grim scene, according to Leeds Live.
Details remain scarce as investigators work to determine the circumstances surrounding the mysterious demise. Authorities have confirmed that Hackman’s body, along with that of his wife, Betsy, 65, was discovered in a mummified state, raising unsettling questions about the couple’s final days. The discovery, made in a quiet neighborhood on Old Sunset Trail in Hyde Park, has sent shockwaves through both Hollywood and the local community.
Friends of the late actor have now begun to speak out about the enigmatic nature of their deaths. Longtime friend Doug Lanham told the Sunday Times, “There’s so many pieces of the puzzle that don’t equate to who they are,” reflecting on the unexpected end to a private yet vibrant life. Doug also recalled the couple’s unusual blend of privacy and openness with friends: “They lived a very private life, but at the same time, once you gained their trust, it was like, get ready, the door opened.” Such comments hint at a life full of intriguing secrets behind closed doors.
Another close friend, Barbara Leniham, suggested that Betsy’s unwavering care might have played a role in extending Hackman’s life. She commented, “He probably did live a lot longer because of her care for him.” The couple’s devotion was also highlighted in lighter moments shared among friends. Doug recalled an anecdote about Gene’s mischievous side: whenever he indulged in forbidden desserts, Doug would jokingly ask, “Does Betsy know about this?” Gene would always respond with a playful warning, replying, “You better not tell her…Don’t screw with me”, reports the Mirror.
Additional recollections came from Daniel, who shared heart-wrenching details of his last encounter with the couple. He told CNN’s Erin Burnett, “Last time we saw them, they were alive and well. Meanwhile, Lenihan’s wife Barbara, said she had last seen Betsy a few weeks ago at a home decor shop the two had opened together.” Barbara Leniham, co-owner of the shop, added, “They were so delightful to be around. [I’ve] probably never seen a couple that got along and enjoyed each other so much.”
The Santa Fe County Sheriff’s office released a statement earlier this week confirming the grim discovery: “On February 26, 2025 at approximately 1:45 p.m., Santa Fe County Sheriff’s deputies were dispatched to an address on Old Sunset Trail in Hyde Park where Gene Hackman, 95 and his wife Betsy Arakawa, 64, and a dog were found deceased.” The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are urging anyone with further information to come forward as they piece together the final chapter of a Hollywood legend.
