Police have confirmed that Hollywood veteran actor Gene Hackman has been found dead in his Santa Fe home.
Santa Fe County Sheriff Adan Mendoza confirmed that Hackman and his wife Betsy Arakawa, a classical pianist, were both found dead at their home. However he did not give information regarding the cause of death.
He said that, at this point, foul play is not suspected and that the dog was found deceased alongside the pair.
Mendoza also did not comment on when the couple might have died when he was asked by reporters.
In a statement he said: “All I can say is that we’re in the middle of a preliminary death investigation, waiting on approval of a search warrant.”
Hackman was known as a legend in Hollywood, most fondly remembered for his role as Lex Luthor in the Superman movie as well as Little Bill Daggett in the Unforgiven and Jimmy Doyle in the French Connection.
The actor was known as being a private individual as well and announced in 2004 that he was retiring from acting. He then proceeded to leave Los Angeles and moved to New Mexico.
At the time he told the press: “I haven’t held a press conference to announce retirement, but yes, I’m not going to act any longer. I really don’t want to do it any longer.”
Hackman concluded his acting career with over 100 acting roles, however rumors circulated that this decision to retire was tied to stress.
Hackman and Betsy started dating in the mid 80s and got married in 1991, but clarified that he did not abandon his first wife Faye Maltese for her.
He said: “By the way, I did not leave my real-life wife for a younger woman. We just drifted apart. We lost sight of each other. When you work in this business, marriage takes a great deal of work and love.”
While details are scarce about Hackman and Betsy Arakawa fans have begun tributing the actor and his wife on social media.
One user on Twitter wrote: “RIP Gene Hackman and his wife Betsy Arakawa found dead, marking the end of an era in cinema.”
Another said: “Honoring the memory of Gene Hackman and his wife Betsy Arakawa. Their impact on cinema and music will not be forgotten.”
A third added: “That is awful news. Truly one of the best actors Hollywood ever gave us.”
With another commenting: “What a legend left behind a legacy of one of the best movies of our times.”