Gene Hackman, the acclaimed actor who captivated audiences for over four decades with his extraordinary range and authenticity, has died at age 95 alongside his wife Betsy Arakawa at their Santa Fe home.
Born in San Bernardino, California in 1930, young Gene enlisted in the Marine Corps at just 16, lying about his age to serve. After his military service, he pursued his passion for acting, studying alongside fellow aspiring actor Dustin Hoffman at the Pasadena Playhouse.
His breakthrough came in 1967's "Bonnie and Clyde," earning his first Oscar nomination as Buck Barrow. But it was his gritty portrayal of Detective Popeye Doyle in 1971's "The French Connection" that launched him to stardom and earned him the Academy Award for Best Actor.
Throughout the 1970s, Hackman demonstrated remarkable versatility, moving effortlessly between intense dramas like "The Conversation" and comedic roles, including a memorable cameo in "Young Frankenstein" and his portrayal of criminal mastermind Lex Luthor in "Superman."
The 1980s and 90s brought more acclaimed performances in films like "Hoosiers," where he played a redemption-seeking basketball coach, and "Unforgiven," which earned him his second Oscar. His final film appearance came in 2004's "Welcome to Mooseport."
After retiring from acting, Hackman settled into a quieter life in Santa Fe with his wife Betsy, focusing on writing novels and enjoying his artistic pursuits in painting and sculpture. His legacy spans 40 years and nearly 100 films, marked by performances that brought depth and humanity to every character he portrayed.
When asked to sum up his life, Hackman once simply stated: "He tried." But his impact on cinema proves he did far more than try - he succeeded in becoming one of Hollywood's most respected and versatile actors.
The authorities are investigating the deaths of Hackman, his wife, and their dog at their Santa Fe residence, though no foul play is suspected. His passing marks the end of an era in American cinema, leaving behind an unmatched body of work that will continue to inspire future generations.