The mysterious death of legendary actor Gene Hackman and his wife Betsy Arakawa has left friends and acquaintances grappling with unanswered questions about their final days.
According to Fox News, longtime friend Stuart Ashman disclosed that the 95-year-old Oscar winner had become increasingly reclusive following the COVID-19 pandemic, prioritizing his health and immune system in his later years.
The couple was discovered deceased in their Santa Fe home last Wednesday, with authorities confirming they had been dead for several days before being found. No official cause of death has been released, leaving friends and the community searching for answers about the circumstances surrounding their passing.
The Lenihan family, who maintained a close relationship with the couple, observed significant changes in Hackman's lifestyle during his final months. Daniel and Barbara Lenihan, along with their son Aaron, noted the actor had become largely homebound and had ceased his regular neighborhood bicycle rides.
Arakawa demonstrated unwavering dedication to maintaining her husband's health and engagement despite his declining condition. She arranged daily yoga sessions via Zoom and encouraged puzzle-solving activities to keep his mind active.
The couple's strong bond was evident to those who knew them well. Aaron Lenihan emphasized their genuine partnership, describing them as exceptionally kind individuals who, though reserved, possessed authentic personalities and maintained a playful spirit.
Despite his advanced age, Hackman had maintained an impressive fitness regimen throughout much of his retirement. Ashman recalled the actor's commitment to Pilates, which he practiced three times weekly, complemented by regular cycling sessions.
The actor's influence extended beyond his physical pursuits into the local business community. Ashman revealed Hackman's lesser-known role as a community benefactor, often investing in local businesses, not for profit, but to support promising entrepreneurs.
Stuart Ashman shared his last interaction with Hackman, which occurred before the pandemic struck:
It was before COVID, and it reminded me of when I was a kid. My father had a friend who he had not been in contact with, and we went to visit him. And then he had been dead for a few days. And my father lamented not having called him. And I feel the same way.
The friendship between Ashman and Hackman blossomed from their shared interests and experiences, including their military service and regular Pilates sessions. Their conversations often ran so long that their instructor would have to intervene to begin class.
Hackman's generosity manifested in unexpected ways, such as gifting Ashman a painting in exchange for regular egg deliveries from his small farm. This transaction exemplified the actor's down-to-earth nature despite his Hollywood success.
The actor also shared fascinating behind-the-scenes stories from his career, including an amusing anecdote about an accidental collision during the filming of The French Connection that resulted in an unexpectedly generous settlement for a local resident.
Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa's deaths have left an indelible mark on their Santa Fe community. The couple was discovered deceased in their home last Wednesday, with authorities confirming a delay of several days before their discovery. The circumstances surrounding their passing remain unclear, though friends emphasize Hackman's age-related decline and increasing reclusiveness in recent years. The loss of this legendary actor and his wife marks the end of an era, leaving friends like Stuart Ashman reflecting on missed opportunities for connection while treasuring their memories of the couple's kindness and generosity toward their community.
