Jean Hackman, the beloved Oscar-winning actor renowned for his unforgettable performances, has passed away at the age of 95. He was found dead alongside his wife, Betsy Arakawa, 64, at their home in Santa Fe, New Mexico, on February 27. The cause of their deaths remains under investigation by local authorities.
In a heartfelt statement to People magazine, Hackman’s daughters, Elizabeth and Leslie, along with granddaughter Annie, expressed their profound grief. “It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our father Jean Hackman and his wife Betsy. He was loved and admired by millions around the world for his brilliant acting career, but to us, he was always just Dad and Grandpa. We will miss him sorely,” the family shared.
Hackman, celebrated for his roles in classic films such as “The French Connection,” “Superman,” and “The Royal Tenenbaums,” leaves behind a legacy that will be remembered by fans and colleagues alike. He was married to Betsy Arakawa since 1991, and together they shared a life filled with music and love. Prior to his marriage to Arakawa, Hackman had three 𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘥ren—Christopher, Elizabeth, and Leslie—with his first wife, Fay Maltz.
Tributes have poured in from Hackman’s fellow actors, including Clint Eastwood and Morgan Freeman. Eastwood, who directed Hackman in the iconic film “Unforgiven,” praised him as “the finest actor” and a dear friend, stating, “He was intense and instinctive, never a false note.” Freeman, who shared the screen with Hackman in both “Unforgiven” and “Under Suspicion,” reflected on their collaborations and the impact Hackman had on his career.
As the world mourns the loss of this cinematic legend, Hackman’s family and friends cherish the memories of a man who was not only a remarkable actor but also a loving father and grandfather.