Gene Hackman, 94, recently made a rare appearance with his wife, Betsy Arakawa, decades after retiring. Dressed comfortably in a plaid button-down shirt layered beneath a gray vest, Hackman completed his outfit with green-gray cargo pants. He accessorized his look with a cap and shades.
Although still mobile, Hackman used a cane for support in one hand, and his wife assisting him in the other. The couple’s outing marked a significant moment, being their first public appearance together in over two decades.
Hackman’s sighting set the internet abuzz with comments about the actor’s appearance. Many have remarked on his visibly frail appearance, prompting different reactions.
Some comments included observations such as, “Sad in a way to see him aged.” Others agreed, “That doesn’t look like him one bit,” “That looks nothing like #genehackman,” and “I love him… never would’ve recognized him though,” highlighting the shock of his aging. A particular comment noted, “It looks like the wind could take him away,” pointing to his frailty.
Fans also expressed gratitude with sentiments like, “Wow, haven’t seen him in a long time but thank goodness he’s still living,” and “Hope I’m as mobile as him if I get to that age,” reflecting appreciation for his mobility and spirit. “Bless his heart at 94 years old,” summed up the positive outlook.
Gene Hackman at “The Royal Tenenbaums” Los Angeles Premiere | Source: Getty Images
After a remarkable 40 years in the entertainment industry, Hackman retired in his late 70s, marking the end of an era for one of Hollywood’s most respected actors. His departure was as understated as his career was illustrious.
Gene Hackman on April 17, 1977 in Beverly Hills, California | Sources: Getty Images
There was no fanfare, no press release, and no public announcement heralding his exit from acting. Instead, the “Superman” star opted for a quiet withdrawal into private life alongside his wife, embodying the grace and dignity that had characterized his entire career.
Gene Hackman and Elizabeth Hackman on March 24, 1979 in Beverly Hills, California | Source: Getty ImagesHis decision to retire wasn’t precipitated by the usual industry shenanigans or a dwindling passion for the craft. In fact, he was still getting great offers. “I was getting great offers, but the roles were mostly doddering great-grandfathers,” he said.Rather, it was a matter of health and personal well-being. Reflecting on the turning point, Hackman shared a poignant moment that led to his retirement decision.”The straw that broke the camel’s back was actually a stress test that I took in New York,” Hackman revealed. “The doctor advised me that my heart wasn’t in the kind of shape that I should be putting it under any stress.” This revelation prompted him to leave the limelight, leaving behind a legacy of unforgettable roles and performances he had.In the tranquil expanse outside Santa Fe, N.M., nestled in a two-bedroom adobe house on a wide brown plain, Hackman has found his sanctuary with Betsy Arkawa. Since the late ’90s, he has lived quietly with Arakawa, a classical pianist 28 years his junior whom he met while she worked part-time at a California fitness center.Their life together, away from the Hollywood spotlight, revolves around simple pleasures and creative endeavors. Hackman, an avid painter and sketcher, enjoys the solitude these hobbies offer, often spending time in one of his two pickup trucks.Although his three children, now adults with their own careers, are a source of pride, Hackman, like any parent, wishes for more moments shared with them.
Interestingly, retirement for Hackman didn’t signal the end of his creative journey; rather, it offered a new avenue for expression. Teaming up with his neighbor and friend, Daniel Lenihan, Hackman embarked on a second career as an author, co-writing a series of historical adventure novels.
Gene Hackman during “The Royal Tenenbaums” Los Angeles Premiere at El Capitan Theatre in Hollywood, California, United States | Source: Getty Images
He elaborated on the distinctive stress of writing, which, unlike of film acting, offered a manageable stress, saying, “It’s a different kind of stress. It’s one you can kind of manage, because you’re sitting there by yourself, as opposed to having ninety people sitting around waiting for you to entertain them!”
His acting time was just as colorful, having won two Oscar awards. Over his impressive 40-year career, Hackman graced the silver screen with performances that have become emblematic of Hollywood’s golden era.
American actor Gene Hackman pictured in the movie “The French Connection” | Source: Getty Images
His filmography is a testament to his versatile and dynamic acting prowess, earning him critical acclaim and a legion of fans worldwide. Among his numerous roles, Hackman is perhaps most celebrated for his riveting performances in classics such as “The French Connection,” “Mississippi Burning,” “The Royal Tenenbaums,” “Unforgiven,” and the “Superman” films.
However, Hackman’s contributions to cinema extend far beyond these landmark films. His diverse range of characters includes memorable roles in “Welcome to Mooseport” (2004), “Runaway Jury” (2003), and “Behind Enemy Lines” (2001).
In the early 2000s, he also starred in “Heist” (2001), “Heartbreakers” (2001), “The Mexican” (2001), and “The Replacements” (2000), further solidifying his status as a bankable leading man.
Notably, his portrayals in “Enemy of the State” (1998), “The Birdcage” (1996), and “Crimson Tide” (1995) were met with both commercial success and critical acclaim. His earlier work includes the iconic “Superman” series, where his role as Lex Luthor from “Superman” (1978) to “Superman IV: The Quest for Peace” (1987) highlighted his versatility and skill in portraying villains.
Through these films and many others, Hackman’s enduring legacy in the film industry is firmly cemented, offering a rich catalog of performances that continue to captivate audiences around the globe.
