Actor Gene Hackman, aged 95, and his wife Betsy Arakawa, 65, both died of natural causes within a week of each other in their New Mexico home. While Hackman succumbed to heart disease aggravated by Alzheimer's, Arakawa died from hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, a rare and life-threatening illness contracted from rodent droppings.
Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa: A Tragic Farewell for a Hollywood Icon and His Wife
Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa: A Tragic Farewell for a Hollywood Icon and His Wife
The passing of Oscar-winning actor Gene Hackman and his wife Betsy Arakawa highlights tragic circumstances and raises questions about health risks associated with rare diseases.
Oscar-winning actor Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, have passed away from natural causes just a week apart, shedding light on their unfortunate circumstances. According to the New Mexico medical investigator, Hackman, aged 95, died at his Santa Fe residence on February 18 due to coronary artery disease, with advanced Alzheimer's disease contributing to this heart condition. His wife, Betsy Arakawa, aged 65, was reported to have died approximately seven days prior, on February 11, from hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS), a rare respiratory illness linked to rodent exposure.
Authorities concluded that Betsy died first, likely from complications related to HPS, while Gene, living with Alzheimer's, might not have been fully aware of her passing. Dr. Heather Jarrell of the New Mexico Medical Investigator's Office noted that cognizance of daily occurrences may have been compromised due to his neurological condition. Gene Hackman had a notable history of heart disease, contributing factors to his ultimate demise.
Hantavirus pulmonary syndrome is transmitted through contact with rodent waste, and while rare, it presents severe health risks, with only 136 cases reported in New Mexico over the last 50 years. Of these, fatality rates are prominent, with nearly half resulting in death. Public health officials have emphasized that the risk of exposure in the couple's home was low, although signs of rodent activity were noted on the property. Hackman himself tested negative for the virus.
The couple was married for over three decades and was discovered following a welfare check by neighborhood security when their bodies were found in an advanced state of decomposition. Reports detail that both Hackman's and Arakawa's bodies were in different rooms, with items nearby suggesting their last moments at home. None of the initial investigations found signs of foul play or forced entry, ruling out homicide as a cause.
Hackman, a prominent figure in Hollywood, won two Academy Awards for his work in “The French Connection” (1971) and “Unforgiven” (1992). His contributions to cinema spanned numerous iconic roles, showcasing his versatility. As he transitioned away from the film industry, he found solace in a quieter life in New Mexico, leaving behind a legacy that includes three adult children from a previous marriage and a devoted life with Betsy. The couple is remembered both for their love and Hackman’s extensive contributions to the world of film.
