Gene Hackman death: Prince William posts heartfelt message — Here’s what he said

Prince William has paid tribute to Hollywood legend Gene Hackman after the 95-year-old was discovered dead in his home alongside his wife Betsy Arakawa and their dog.

In a post on X, Prince William reposted the BAFTAs’ tribute to The French Connection actor and added his own heartfelt message.

Prince William’s tribute to Gene Hackman

In his post, the heir to the British throne described Hackman as a “true genius of film”. Prince William praised the Mississippi Burning star’s ability to bring every character to life “with power, authenticity and quality.”


He said he was deeply saddened to hear about Hackman’s demise. The message was signed “W”, indicating that it was from the Prince of Wales.

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Gene Hackman death

The veteran actor was found dead in his New Mexico home. Initial statements from officials did not mention the cause or time of death of either Hackman or his wife.

Now, startling details have emerged about the deaths. According to a search warrant obtained by TMZ, the deaths have been labelled “suspicious”.

The warrant states that the couple had been dead for some time before their bodies were discovered in separate rooms of the house. There were no signs of trauma on either Hackman or Arakawa's body.

Two of the couple’s dogs were found alive, one outside the house and another inside.

The bodies were discovered by two maintenance workers, who said they hadn't seen Hackman and Arakawa in about two weeks. When they reached the house, the door was open, but no signs of forced entry were detected.

Arakawa’s body was believed to be found in a “state of decomposition” with “mummification in her hands and feet” and a bloated face. A prescription bottled was also found in the house with the medication scattered around.

The matter is still under investigation though initial reports had ruled out foul play. Rumours have been circulating that carbon monoxide poisoning might have led to the deaths of the couple, but early investigations did not detect any leak or damage in the pipes.

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Gene Hackman career

In a career spanning decades, Hackman managed to impress audiences with his performances in Bonnie and Clyde, Superman, The French Connection, Unforgiven, The Royal Tenenbaums and Mississippi Burning. The actor won over 30 awards in his lifetime, including two Oscars. Hackman retired from acting in 2004 and then began a career as a writer.

He and his wife Betsy Arakawa were last spotted in public in March last year while the couple was on their way to Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen in Santa Fe.

FAQs

1. Who was Gene Hackman?
He was a noted actor who appeared in several iconic movies like Superman and Bonnie and Clyde.

2. Who was Betsy Arakawa?
She was a classical pianist and Gene Hackman’s wife.