Gene Hackman and Wife Betsy Were ‘One of the Tightest Couples I’ve Ever Seen,’ Says Friend: ‘She Was Very Protective’ (Exclusive)

Gene Hackman and Wife Betsy Were ‘Real Life Partners,’ Says Friend (Exclusive)

Gene Hackman and his wife Betsy Arakawa were known as “real-life partners,” according to long-time friends and neighbours in their Santa Fe, New Mexico neighbourhood. The married couple, Daniel and Barbara Lenihan, along with their son Aaron, who had known the couple for years, expressed shock upon hearing the news that Hackman and Arakawa’s bodies were discovered on Wednesday. Barbara, 75, mentioned that they were aware of Hackman’s advancing age, with the late Oscar winner having turned 95 on Jan. 30, but the news still left them stunned. She also described Arakawa, aged 65, as someone who was “so full of life.”

Questions continue to linger over the sudden deaths of Hackman, his wife, and one of their dogs, while two other healthy dogs were found on their property. The Santa Fe County Sheriff’s office reported that they had likely been deceased for several days, and Arakawa’s body, found alongside an open bottle of pills, showed signs of mummification. Aaron, 38, one of their neighbours, shared that Hackman and Arakawa were an incredibly close couple. They actively participated in events like their neighbours’ taekwondo and soccer matches, with Arakawa entertaining guests with her piano skills while Hackman shared his knowledge of painting with the younger generation.

Barbara reflected on Hackman as “the Renaissance man” and Arakawa as equally sharp, highlighting their kindness and camaraderie. She remembered them as individuals who were considerate and supportive of each other, particularly as Hackman’s mobility declined in recent months. Daniel, 79, noted that as Hackman grew more home-bound towards the end, Arakawa remained vigilant about his health and well-being, even amidst the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. The Lenihan family, who had grown close to the couple, expressed their deep sorrow at the loss, emphasizing the strength of the relationship between Hackman and Arakawa.

It has emerged that Hackman and Arakawa leave behind three children from Hackman’s previous marriage to Faye Maltese. As investigations into their deaths unfold under the purview of the Santa Fe County Sheriff’s office, the community and fans of the legendary actor are left mourning the loss of a beloved figure. The couple’s endearing bond and the impact they had on those around them have left a lasting impression, with tributes pouring in from all corners.

The tragic news of Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa’s passing has shaken not only their local community but also their fans worldwide. As the details slowly emerge, one thing remains clear – the legacy of this Hollywood icon and his devoted wife will endure through the memories they created and the lives they touched.