In the Santa Fe community where he resided with his wife, Betsy Arakawa Hackman for nearly 40 years, Gene Hackman was known for his reluctance to slow down. Stephen Marshall, a retired FBI agent who had trained the couple through a community program, shared that the Oscar winner was preoccupied with the effects of aging. Marshall mentioned that Gene was troubled by his advancing years and was disheartened to see himself on screen as he no longer matched his youthful appearance. Despite Marshall’s invitation for Gene and Betsy to attend a screening of one of Gene’s movies, “Night Moves,” the couple declined, with Gene feeling uneasy about the idea.
Marshall disclosed that Gene was uncomfortable with people recognizing him in public, often commenting on how he appeared older than he felt. Despite Marshall’s positive opinion of Gene’s looks, Gene remained fixated on his aging appearance. Marshall first encountered Gene and Betsy at an FBI anniversary picnic and later trained them in a citizens’ academy to educate the public about the bureau.
As Gene’s health declined, Marshall observed that the couple became more reclusive. Gene’s passing on February 18 was attributed to cardiovascular disease, with Alzheimer’s as a contributing factor. Tragically, Gene was alone for about a week after Betsy succumbed to hantavirus pulmonary syndrome transmitted by rodents. Despite their private nature, friends admired the couple’s active lifestyle, especially Gene’s Marine Corps background and boxing skills. At 84, Gene remained tough and engaged in various pursuits, leaving a lasting impression on those who knew him.
Anaya first collaborated with Gene when Betsy connected them following a referral from a doctor to address a shoulder injury. After successfully rehabilitating the shoulder, Anaya described Gene’s training routine as focusing on scapular stability, hip stability, and balance (proprioception), especially considering Gene’s age. Anaya noted Gene’s military boxing background, praising his stance, punches, and movement skills. Despite no physical sparring, they trained with practice mitts.
Anaya developed a close rapport with Gene, who preferred to be called by his first name rather than Mr. Hackman, highlighting his humility and kindness. Anaya, a sports medicine specialist, observed Gene’s impressive boxing skills at 84 years old. Gene also shared some of his paintings with Anaya, showing his passion for art.
Mike Putnam, a golf instructor who worked with Gene, shared that the Oscar-winner preferred to be addressed as Gene instead of Mr. Hackman. Gene left a note for Putnam requesting golf lessons, leading to enjoyable sessions with both Gene and his wife, Betsy, in Santa Fe, N.M. Despite Gene’s initial struggles with golf, Betsy seemed to adapt more quickly, adding a lighthearted dynamic to their lessons.
Gene gifted his paintings to several acquaintances, including Putnam and Stuart Ashman, who received a painting in exchange for delivering eggs from his farm. Ashman, who met Gene through mutual interests and community involvement, cherished the painting as a special memento.
Overall, Gene’s final years in Santa Fe were marked by his dedication to improving his golf game, his generosity in sharing his artwork, and the meaningful connections he made with those around him.
In a private class setting, we would engage in lengthy conversations to the extent that the teacher jokingly questioned whether I was there for a lesson or simply to chat with Stuart. This dynamic reflected the strong connection we shared. Looking back, I regret not spending more time together after his passing.
Friends of Gene Hackman recently shared insights into his lifestyle before his mysterious death, describing him as “slowing down” and “reclusive.” One friend, Ashman, emphasized Gene’s dedication to fitness, noting his rigorous Pilates routine and regular biking in Albuquerque. Another friend, Aaron, mentioned how Gene’s wife, Betsy, tried to keep him active with activities like puzzles and virtual yoga sessions.
Gary Sinise, Gene’s co-star, highlighted Gene’s quiet life outside of Hollywood. Gene and Betsy enjoyed hobbies like fly-fishing and learning to fly planes. Additionally, Gene was known for his skill in fly-fishing, as recalled by Ivan Valdez, who arranged a memorable trip for Gene and former NFL coach Jack Del Rio.
Andy Wells, a flight instructor, worked with Gene and Betsy to enhance their piloting skills. After successful lessons, the couple participated in various activities in Santa Fe, including tennis. Despite Gene’s reclusive tendencies in later years, his bond with Betsy remained strong.
She was small and quiet, making it easy to not notice her if she went out to the same grocery store as me. She seemed very focused, and I thought she was great. Gene was also actively involved in the Santa Fe community. According to Jennifer LaBar-Tapia, the Santa Fe Film Commissioner, Gene Hackman and his wife were deeply integrated into the local community. Gene was approachable and involved in various aspects of Santa Fe life, including owning businesses, serving on museum boards, investing in restaurants, and pursuing his interests in art and writing. His time in Santa Fe marked a shift from his well-known acting career to exploring other creative pursuits. Interviewees and contributors to this report include Fox News Digital’s Tracy Wright, Lauryn Overhultz, Janelle Ash, and Stephanie Giang-Paunon.
