Gene Hackman, film legend and portrayer of Lex Luthor in the Superman trilogy, has died

Published by Laurent de Sortiraparis · Updated on February 28, 2025 at 12:58 p.m. · Published on February 27, 2025 at 12:58 p.m.
Gene Hackman, Oscar-winning actor for French Connection and Merciless, and portrayer of Lex Luthor in the Superman trilogy with Christopher Reeves, died at his home in Santa Fe on February 26, 2025 at the age of 95, at the side of his wife Betsy Arakawa.

Sad news for movie fans... Two-time Oscar-winning American actor Gene Hackman was found dead at his home in Santa Fe, New Mexico, on February 26, 2025, aged 95. His wife, pianist Betsy Arakawa, 63, was also found deceased at his side. Local authorities did not release the cause of death, but said no foul play was suspected.

Born on January 30, 1930 in San Bernardino, California, Gene Hackman enjoyed a prolific career spanning more than four decades. He won the Oscar for Best Actor for his role in French Connection (1971) and Best Supporting Actor for Merciless (1992). Other notable films include Bonnie and Clyde (1967), The Conversation (1974) and Superman (1978), in which he played the famous antagonist Lex Luthor.

After retiring from films in 2004, Gene Hackman devoted himself to writing, publishing several novels. He lived a discreet life in Santa Fe with his wife Betsy Arakawa, whom he married in 1991. The couple were known for their discretion and distance from the limelight. Sad news just days before the Oscars.

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