On Thursday, Feb. 27, 2025, Clint Eastwood, the acclaimed actor, mourned the passing of his friend and co-star Gene Hackman in a heartfelt statement to Variety. Hackman, an Oscar recipient, was found dead at his Santa Fe, New Mexico residence, with his wife Betsy Arakawa also dead.

“There was no finer actor than Gene. Intense and instinctive. Never a false note,” Eastwood expressed. He further described Hackman as a “dear friend” who he would “miss very much.”

The pair, both Hollywood icons, worked together on the 1992 Western film “Unforgiven,” directed by Eastwood. Hackman’s portrayal of the uncompromising Sheriff “Little Bill” Daggett brought him his second Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. In his Oscar speech, Hackman expressed his gratitude to Eastwood, attributing the success of the cast to him.

Morgan Freeman, another cast member from “Unforgiven,” also shared his tribute. He recalled his experience working with Hackman on Instagram, describing it as a career “personal highlight.” “He was incredibly gifted,” Freeman wrote.

Hackman, 95, and Arakawa, 65, were found dead in their home on February 26, 2025, by a maintenance worker who then alerted emergency services. The bodies were discovered in separate rooms, with early investigations suggesting they had been deceased for a while.

Santa Fe County Sheriff’s officials noted several unusual factors at the scene that led to a more in-depth investigation. These included an open front door, scattered prescription pills, and the couple’s separation at the time of death. One of their dogs was also found dead, while the other two were found alive roaming the house.

According to court documents, the sheriff’s office stated, “The circumstances are suspicious enough in nature to require a thorough search and investigation.” However, they did not suggest foul play. The scene also featured a knocked-over heater.

Hackman’s daughter had suggested carbon monoxide poisoning as a possible cause of death. She informed investigators that her father was in good health, and his wife Betsy had been taking excellent care of him. Authorities noted that Hackman might have experienced a sudden fall as he was found near his walking cane.

The medical examiner ruled out carbon monoxide poisoning. On February 28, it was reported that Hackman’s pacemaker stopped working on February 17, suggesting that was the day of his death.

Born in San Bernardino, California, in 1930, Hackman rose from a difficult childhood to become a respected figure in Hollywood. After his father abandoned the family, Hackman joined the Marine Corps before turning to acting. Despite early setbacks, he built an impressive career over five decades.

Hackman was known for his wide range of characters, from the corrupt cop Popeye Doyle in “The French Connection” to the villain Lex Luthor in the “Superman” films. His performances were often lauded for their depth and complexity.

“A great actor, inspiring and magnificent in his work and complexity,” commented Francis Ford Coppola, who directed Hackman in “The Conversation.”

Despite his reputation for having a short temper and high expectations on set, Hackman’s performances were widely recognized. He had a prolific career throughout the 1970s, 80s, and 90s, often taking roles for financial reasons.

Hackman retired from acting in 2004, having appeared in over 80 films. In his retirement, he focused on writing historical fiction novels, painting, stunt flying, and living a quiet life in Santa Fe with Arakawa, whom he married in 1991.

Hackman’s children from his first marriage, Christopher, Leslie, and Elizabeth Hackman, expressed their sorrow over the loss, stating their father would be “missed by millions.” The couple had maintained a private lifestyle since Hackman’s retirement, with their last public appearance in March 2024.

PETA recognized Hackman’s contribution to animal rights, highlighting his efforts against chimpanzee experimentation and his habit of rescuing stray dogs on film sets.

During his distinguished career, Hackman received numerous awards, including two Oscars, two BAFTAs, four Golden Globes, and a Screen Actors Guild Award. His influence on American cinema remains significant, with critics praising his ability to bring a sense of realism and powerful presence to his roles.