Actor Gene Hackman and his wife Betsy Arakawa were found dead at their home in New Mexico. Betsy passed away from hantavirus, a serious illness, while Gene died shortly after from heart disease. Their deaths came as a shock to family and friends, as the couple had seemed healthy just days before.
Betsy, 65, took great care of Hackman, 95, especially as he battled Alzheimer’s disease. She encouraged him to stay active, whether by biking or participating in yoga sessions over Zoom. Friends described them as a loving couple who enjoyed each other’s company.
The last time friends saw them together, they appeared to be doing well. Daniel Lenihan, a longtime friend, mentioned that they were in good spirits during their last meeting. Barbara Lenihan added that Betsy was seen shopping just days before, indicating that she did not show any signs of illness at that time.
Investigators pieced together the timeline leading to their deaths. Betsy’s last known activity was on February 11 when she visited several local shops. After that, she had no outgoing communication. It was later determined that she had contracted hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, which can be transmitted by rodents.
Tragically, it is believed Betsy died first, followed by Gene a few days later. He had been dealing with health issues, including advanced Alzheimer’s, which could have left him unaware of his wife’s passing. Authorities found Gene in poor health when they discovered his body on February 26.
Health officials noted that Alzheimer’s significantly impairs the ability to care for oneself. If Betsy was his primary caregiver, her sudden absence would have left Hackman vulnerable. Investigators found no food in his stomach, suggesting he may not have been eating well after her death.
The investigation continues, with authorities looking into the couple’s cell phones for more information about their final days. While both had health issues, it remains unclear how the hantavirus affected Betsy leading up to her death, especially since she showed no clear signs of being ill just days before.
Betsy and Gene’s love story began when they met at a California fitness center. They married in 1991 and enjoyed a quiet life in Santa Fe, where they shared their love for music and the arts. Betsy was not just a supportive spouse; she also played a significant role in Gene’s writing pursuits, helping him organize and edit his work.
Friends remember Betsy as a caring partner who made sure Gene stayed healthy, even encouraging him to adopt hobbies and active routines. Their relationship was characterized by mutual support and affection, which earned them admiration from those around them.
As officials work to answer lingering questions about their deaths, the couple’s legacy will likely be remembered as one of love and companionship, even in the face of life’s challenges.
