Gene Hackman's Death Follows Wife's by One Week, Medical Probe Finds

A medical investigation into the death of Oscar-winning actor Gene Hackman has revealed that he likely passed away one week after hantavirus claimed the life of his wife, Betsy Arakawa, as reported by Variety.

An update on the couple's passing, which was initially considered "suspicious" in a search warrant issued late last month, comes from New Mexico Office of the Medical Investigator Chief Medical Examiner Heather Jarrell. She confirmed that Hackman, aged 95, succumbed to cardiovascular disease, with Alzheimer’s also contributing to his demise.

It is believed that Arakawa, aged 65, died on February 11, 15 days before the discovery of her and Hackman’s bodies in their New Mexico home. The CDC describes hantavirus as a "family of viruses which can cause serious illnesses and death." This virus is primarily spread by rodents, such as mice and rats.

Sheriff Adan Mendoza, in a recent news conference, stated that security camera footage showed Arakawa visiting a local Sprouts market and CVS on the day of her death. She had also spoken with a massage therapist that same day. Hackman’s pacemaker recorded its final event on February 17, indicating he died one week after Arakawa. The couple, along with one deceased dog, were found in separate rooms with no evidence of a gas leak; subsequent autopsies tested negative for carbon monoxide.

The news of Hackman and Arakawa’s deaths sent shockwaves through the film community when it broke on February 27. Hackman's illustrious career included winning two Oscars and starring in films such as Superman, The French Connection, Unforgiven, and many more. He retired from acting in 2004, a decision influenced by his doctor's advice to avoid stressing his heart, as he shared with Empire.

For a deeper dive into Hackman’s work, you can explore our list of his 20 best films.