Remembering Gene Hackman: Friends Share Insights Into His Life Before a Mysterious Passing

SANTA FE, N.M. — Friends of Gene Hackman reflect on his life and the events leading up to his untimely and mysterious death. Stuart Ashman, a close acquaintance of the acclaimed actor, expressed a deep sense of regret for not maintaining closer contact with Hackman in recent years. Ashman cherishes fond memories and a unique painting gifted by Hackman, a reminder of their friendship.

“He was obviously 95, so he was slowing down,” Ashman said in an interview. He added that after experiencing the COVID-19 pandemic, Hackman had become more reclusive, taking measures to protect his health.

“I find the whole situation puzzling. Several reports are circulating, creating a kind of tragic mystery surrounding his death. I cannot speculate on the cause, but I believe it is compounded by the fact that he was with his wife and their dog at the time,” he noted.

Authorities discovered Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, in their home on a recent Wednesday. Investigators indicated that the couple had likely been deceased for several days before discovery, although the cause of death remains undisclosed.

Friends Recall Changes in Hackman’s Lifestyle

Family friends Daniel and Barbara Lenihan, along with their son Aaron, shared their observations with media outlets. They noted that Hackman had become increasingly home-bound, even quitting his bicycle rides around the neighborhood.

Aaron mentioned, “Betsy tried to keep him active and engaged, frequently encouraging him to participate in activities like puzzles and yoga sessions conducted via Zoom daily.” He emphasized Betsy’s dedication to maintaining Hackman’s health and engagement in life.

According to the Lenihans, in the months leading up to Hackman’s passing, his health seemed to decline significantly.

Protective Nature of Betsy Arakawa

Friends highlight Arakawa’s protective attitude towards Hackman during the pandemic. They recalled that she consistently wore a mask when interacting with others, symbolizing her commitment to safeguarding his well-being.

Aaron described the couple’s relationship, stating, “They seemed like real-life partners, incredibly close, and always kind to those around them. While they were reserved, they truly enjoyed life together.”

Ashman’s Regret and Reflection

Ashman recalled his last conversation with Hackman, which took place before the pandemic began. He expressed regret for the lack of communication since then.

“It takes me back to my childhood when my father lamented not contacting an old friend who had also passed away. I feel a similar sense of loss now. I thought he was just doing well on his own,” Ashman said.

His last memory of Hackman was during the latter’s winter visits to Florida, where Hackman would rent a place to escape the cold. They had spoken about this trip shortly before Ashman’s last conversation with him.

A Unique Bond through Pilates

Ashman and Hackman formed a friendship in the late 1990s while serving on a committee at the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum. Their bond deepened further through a shared Pilates class, where they often chatted for extended periods.

“We would talk so much that our instructor often joked about whether Gene came for the class or just to converse with me,” Ashman recalled, adding that their conversations ranged from light-hearted to deeply personal.

As the co-owner of Artes de Cuba Gallery and a former cultural affairs secretary for New Mexico, Ashman often delivered fresh farm eggs to Hackman. This friendship took an endearing turn when Hackman gifted Ashman a beautiful painting in exchange for the eggs.

The Legacy of Gene Hackman

Ashman emphasized that Hackman was an active member of the Santa Fe community. He supported several local businesses not primarily for profit but out of genuine goodwill and to uplift others.

Hackman maintained a healthy lifestyle, often seen exercising even in his advanced years. Ashman noted, “He was fit, standing over six feet tall, an ex-Marine who practiced Pilates several times a week. On Pilates-free days, he would drive down to Albuquerque to cycle along the scenic trails, remaining physically active and engaged.”

Shared Experiences and Military Service

Many of Ashman’s cherished memories revolve around their conversations at Pilates class, with topics ranging from politics to their shared experiences in the military. Ashman, who served in the naval reserves, and Hackman, a Marine veteran, often exchanged stories and joked about their respective service experiences.

Ashman shared that Hackman provided him with behind-the-scenes anecdotes from some of his iconic films, including buzzworthy stories from the set of The French Connection.

One particularly memorable exchange was when a stranger at a New York event recognized Hackman for having unwittingly changed his life during the film’s production. This individual recounted how Hackman’s filming created a traffic disruption that led to a windfall for him, showcasing the unexpected impact of Hackman’s work.

Ultimately, the legacy of Gene Hackman extends beyond his film accomplishments. He will be remembered for his community involvement, genuine friendships, and the unique bonds he created throughout his life. As friends and family reflect on his remarkable journey, they celebrate the man who touched so many lives in ways both large and small.