Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, were discovered lifeless in their Santa Fe home earlier this week, leaving fans and loved ones in shock. Tributes have been pouring in from around the world as people reflect on the legendary actor’s life and career.

In his later years, Hackman largely stepped away from the spotlight, making only a handful of rare public appearances. However, curiosity about his final years has resurfaced, with many wondering about the last time he was seen in public.

Just a year before his passing, the French Connection star was spotted out in public for the first time in over two decades.

Hackman was 95 years old when he passed away, while his wife, Arakawa, was 63. Their beloved dog also died alongside them at their New Mexico residence on February 26, 2025.

Santa Fe County officials released a statement confirming, “We can confirm that both Gene Hackman and his wife were found deceased Wednesday afternoon at their residence on Sunset Trail.”

Although an investigation is underway, authorities have stated, “This is an active investigation – however, at this time we do not believe that foul play was a factor.”

The couple’s final public outing took place last year—marking Hackman’s first public sighting in nearly 21 years. Photographs from that rare appearance captured the two leaving Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Hackman, using a cane, was seen holding onto his wife’s arm for support. Some of these images have surfaced on X.