Farewell, Popeye: Gene Hackman's Career in Pictures - Gene Hackman's legacy lives on one year after his passing at 95
Legendary actor Gene Hackman passed away one year ago, on February 26, 2025, at the age of 95. He was found in his Santa Fe home alongside his wife, Betsy Arakawa, and one of their three dogs. His death followed complications from cardiovascular disease.
Gene Hackman first gained recognition in 1967 with Bonnie and Clyde, earning his first Oscar nomination for Best Supporting Actor. Five years later, he won his first Academy Award for Best Actor in The French Connection (1972). His career continued to flourish, and in 1993, he secured a second Oscar—this time for Best Supporting Actor—in Unforgiven.
Over five decades, he collected more than 30 major awards, including four Golden Globes and two BAFTAs. Despite retiring from acting in 2004, his influence on cinema remained undiminished. His final years were spent quietly in New Mexico, where he lived with Arakawa, his wife of over 30 years.
Gene Hackman's death marked the end of an era for Hollywood. His work spanned iconic films and earned him two Oscars, along with dozens of other honours. He leaves behind a legacy as one of the most respected actors of his generation.
