Gene Hackman, known for his roles in several films including the French Connection and Unforgiven was found dead in his home in New Mexico. He was 95. HIs wife, Betsy Arakawa, 63, was found dead at the same time. No foul play is suspected.
Hackman was born in San Bernardino, California, in 1930, but grew up in the mid-west. He left home at age 16 and lied about his age to enlist in the United States Marine Corps. He served four and a half years as a field-radio operator. Hackman was stationed in China (Qingdao and later in Shanghai). When the Communist Revolution conquered the mainland in 1949, he was assigned to Hawaii and Japan. Following his discharge in 1951, Hackman moved to New York City.
In 1956, Hackman began pursuing an acting career. Hackman acted in several Broadway plays. His part in the 1964 Broadway hit Any Wednesday opened the path for consistent work in film. His first credited role came in the 1964 film Lilith.
His turn as Buck Barrow in 1967’s Bonnie and Clyde got him his first Oscar nomination, as best supporting actor. Hackman was nominated for a second Best Supporting Actor Academy Award for his role in I Never Sang for My Father in 1970.
In 1971, he took home the trophy for best actor for his portrayal of Popeye Doyle in the French Connection.
Over the years, Hackman made appearances in many cultural touchstone films. Mississippi Burning – where he earned a second Best Actor nomination, Hoosiers, A Bridge Too far, Superman and Postcards From The Edge are all on the must-watch list.
In 1992 he teamed up with Clint Eastwood in Unforgiven. His portrayal of “Little Bill” Daggett earned him his second Oscar, this time for Best Supporting actor. Hackman took over every scene he appeared in. Quite a feat when starring alongside Eastwood and Morgan Freeman.
Hackman appeared in several more films after Unforgiven including the Royal Tennenbaums and Runaway Jury. He retired from acting in 2004.
Alongside his two Oscars, Hackman won two BAFTA awards and three Golden Globes.
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