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Remembering Gene Hackman: A Business Partner’s Fond Memories and Heartfelt Tribute
SANTA FE, NEW MEXICO – In the wake of Gene Hackman’s passing, his longtime business partner Dough Lanham reflects on cherished moments with the legendary actor. Among these memories, one particularly amusing anecdote stands out: the time Hackman humorously settled a golf bet with a sizable toolbox filled with pennies.
As Lanham awaits the results of an investigation into the mysterious circumstances surrounding Hackman and his wife Betsy Arakawa’s deaths, he finds comfort in their vibrant memories. Authorities reported that the couple had been deceased for several days before their bodies were discovered in their secluded home. However, the exact cause of their deaths remains unknown, leaving Lanham with many unanswered questions.
Lanham expressed admiration for Arakawa’s devotion to animals, particularly her beloved German Shepherds. He stated, “Her love for animals was incredible. Those dogs were the joy of her life, which makes the recent news hard to comprehend. We truly hope for clarity in this situation.”
During his conversation with Fox News Digital, Lanham shared that both Hackman and Arakawa were exceptionally private individuals, revealing their more engaging sides only to those who got to know them. Their close-knit circle understood the warmth and humor that defined Hackman’s character.
Lanham opted to recount a delightful story about the Oscar-winning actor instead of attempting to summarize Hackman’s legacy in a few words. He recalled their frequent golf outings filled with lighthearted wagers. “Gene was notably known for sometimes avoiding his bets,” Lanham said, smiling at the memory. “I finally suggested to him, ‘How about some cash, buddy?’ He just shot me that classic Gene Hackman look and shook his head, wordlessly declining.”
What occurred next left Lanham astonished. “About a week later, I was in my office when my hostess informed me, ‘Mr. Hackman is here.’ I assumed she was referring to a table reservation, only to discover he arrived at my office with a huge toolbox on wheels,” Lanham recounted, laughter twinkling in his voice.
Hackman presented the hefty toolbox to Lanham, informing him that this was the payment for their bet, complete with a note tucked inside. Curiosity piqued, Lanham opened the toolbox to find approximately $700 worth of pennies alongside a personal message reflecting Hackman’s feelings towards the wager. “From that day, we affectionately referred to him as ‘Captain Hollywood’,’ Lanham chuckled.
Despite the passage of five or six years since Lanham last saw the couple, he fondly recalled their initial meeting, which sparked their longstanding partnership. “We met at the restaurant during a mutual friend’s lunch with Gene and Betsy. His interest in our cuisine was evident,” Lanham explained.
In a spontaneous moment, Lanham invited them to join a cooking session the following day. To his surprise, they accepted the offer enthusiastically. “At exactly 2 o’clock the next day, they appeared at the restaurant with a cooler full of food, courtesy of Betsy’s exquisite culinary skills,” he shared.
A criminal investigation into the tragic deaths of Hackman and Arakawa commenced after authorities deemed the circumstances surrounding their deaths and that of one of their dogs suspicious. Law enforcement officials asserted the need for a thorough investigation, confirming that no signs of external trauma were observed on either body. The case remains open while awaiting autopsy and toxicology results.
Recent updates indicated that Hackman may have died around nine days prior, as confirmed by authorities. The last activity recorded on his pacemaker occurred on February 17, leading investigators to speculate that this date may have marked his final moments. Santa Fe County Sheriff Adan Mendoza stated, “According to the pathologist, it is reasonable to assume that this date represents the last day of his life.”
Adding to the tragedy, both Hackman and Arakawa tested negative for carbon monoxide poisoning, yet the cause and manner of their deaths have yet to be clarified. The ongoing investigation into their sudden passing emphasizes the community’s need for answers.
As the sadness surrounding Hackman’s passing lingers, those closest to him reflect fondly on their experiences with the acclaimed actor. Chef Fernando Flores, who worked at the Jinja Bar & Bistro—a restaurant co-owned by Hackman—shared his impression of the star. “When I met him, I was slightly in awe. I chose to listen more than speak, given his remarkable status. He genuinely was a kind person,” Flores revealed.
Over the years, Hackman also embarked on an artistic journey, creating artwork displayed in the restaurant. His first significant piece—a large mural—was a product of uncertainty. “Initially, he hesitated, unsure if he could create something worthwhile. We eventually framed it, and despite his reluctance to view it, he learned it brought joy to many patrons,” said Lanham. “That mural has remained a treasured part of our establishment for two decades now, and it continues to tell a story of its own.”
As memories of Gene Hackman, the talented actor and beloved friend, permeate the community, his legacy will undoubtedly endure in the hearts and stories shared by those who knew him best.
Fox News Digital’s Stephanie Giang-Paunon contributed to this report.
