SANTA FE, N.M. — The beautiful Rocky Mountain foothills around Santa Fe have long drawn famous actors and writers looking for a quiet escape. However, the peaceful atmosphere was shattered recently with the news of Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, found dead in their home in the area.
Gene Hackman, 95, and Betsy Arakawa, 65, embraced a quieter life in Santa Fe many years ago. They joined other notable figures, like playwright Sam Shepard, actress Shirley MacLaine, and author George R. R. Martin. Santa Fe is not just scenic; it’s known for its unique Pueblo-style buildings, vibrant art scene, and charming local boutiques selling handmade crafts and jewelry.
With its rich history of Indigenous culture and Spanish colonization, Santa Fe has a laid-back vibe. Young skateboarders mix with the city’s retirees, creating a friendly, welcoming atmosphere. For locals, spotting a celebrity is a common event; they have learned to treat them like regular people.
“Celebrities come here for the same reasons as everyone else—they just want to be normal,” said artist Kristin Bortles, who was preparing a mural for a local coffee shop.
The shock from the news of Hackman and Arakawa’s passing reverberated through Santa Fe. In recent years, the city has had to face intense media scrutiny, especially after the tragic incident involving Alec Baldwin on the set of “Rust.” Now, discussions revolve around how Santa Fe serves as a sanctuary for stars seeking peace away from the flashiness of Los Angeles or New York.
Hackman had an illustrious career, stepping back from Hollywood in the early 2000s. He took on a variety of roles, portraying heroes and villains alike while mostly staying out of the celebrity scene. Even after retiring, he remained active in the Santa Fe arts community, serving on the board of the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum and writing novels set in the Southwest.
He and Arakawa lived in a cozy, multi-level Pueblo-style home that blended seamlessly with the natural landscape. Hackman enjoyed Pilates, biking through town, and collecting fresh eggs from friends. Despite his fame, he often dressed casually, favoring jeans and flannel shirts.
“In Santa Fe, you never know who you’re talking to,” said Gabriel Garcia, whose family has sold jewelry in the city for over 60 years. “It keeps things interesting.”
Hackman was known for his down-to-earth personality, making conversations feel personal and engaging, according to his friend Stuart Ashman. “He was focused on you, not on himself,” Ashman recalled.
Betsy Arakawa, a talented classical musician, was also admired for her humility. Larry Keller, who owns a local art and furniture store, described her as soft-spoken, never seeking special treatment. “In Santa Fe, we keep it cool,” Keller said.
Check out this related article: Heartbreaking Revelation: Gene Hackman’s Wife Betsy Arakawa Hasn’t Contacted Her 91-Year-Old Mom with Dementia for Months, Claims Housekeeper
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