Gene Hackman was spotted out and about with his rarely-seen wife. Fans couldn’t help but notice his frail appearance, sparking several comments about him being unrecognizable.
Although still mobile, Hackman used a cane for support in one hand, and his wife assisting him in the other. The couple’s outing marked a significant moment, being their first public appearance together in over two decades.
Some comments included observations such as, “Sad in a way to see him aged.” Others agreed, “That doesn’t look like him one bit,” “That looks nothing like #genehackman,” and “I love him… never would’ve recognized him though,” highlighting the shock of his aging. A particular comment noted, “It looks like the wind could take him away,” pointing to his frailty.
Conversely, some view Hackman’s public outing positively, emphasizing resilience and life’s victories. Comments like “He’s walking, he’s being supported by his wife, he’s shopping, he’s 94 and still around. That’s a win,” and “Didn’t even recognise him, I suppose he’s doing good for his 90s,” showcased admiration for his longevity.
Betsy Arakawa and Gene Hackman | Source: Getty Images
Fans also expressed gratitude with sentiments like, “Wow, haven’t seen him in a long time but thank goodness he’s still living,” and “Hope I’m as mobile as him if I get to that age,” reflecting appreciation for his mobility and spirit. “Bless his heart at 94 years old,” summed up the positive outlook.
Gene Hackman at “The Royal Tenenbaums” Los Angeles Premiere | Source: Getty Images
Gene Hackman on April 17, 1977 in Beverly Hills, California | Sources: Getty Images
There was no fanfare, no press release, and no public announcement heralding his exit from acting. Instead, the “Superman” star opted for a quiet withdrawal into private life alongside his wife, embodying the grace and dignity that had characterized his entire career.
Gene Hackman and Elizabeth Hackman on March 24, 1979 in Beverly Hills, California | Source: Getty Images
Actor Gene Hackman accepts the Cecil B. DeMille award on stage at the 60th Annual Golden Globe Awards held at the Beverly Hilton Hotel on January 19, 2003. | Source: Getty Images
Rather, it was a matter of health and personal well-being. Reflecting on the turning point, Hackman shared a poignant moment that led to his retirement decision.
Gene Hackman and wife Betsy Arakawa in 1986 in Los Angeles, California | Source: Getty Images
Actor Gene Hackman and wife Betsy Hackman attend the Mission Hills Pro-Celebrity Sports Invitational on November 30, 1991, at Rancho Mirage in Los Angeles, California. | Source: Getty Images
In the tranquil expanse outside Santa Fe, N.M., nestled in a two-bedroom adobe house on a wide brown plain, Hackman has found his sanctuary with Betsy Arkawa. Since the late ’90s, he has lived quietly with Arakawa, a classical pianist 28 years his junior whom he met while she worked part-time at a California fitness center.
Actor Gene Hackman and wife Betsy Hackman attend the premiere of “The Chamber” on October 2, 1996, at the Academy Theater in Beverly Hills, California. | Source: Getty Images
Gene Hackman and his children Leslie Anne, Christopher Allen, and Elizabeth Jean at Sun Valley. | Source: Getty Images
Although his three children, now adults with their own careers, are a source of pride, Hackman, like any parent, wishes for more moments shared with them.
Actor Gene Hackman and his daughters, attending a celebrity baseball game in Hollywood, California, circa 1975-1985 | Source: Getty Images
Gene Hackman during “The Royal Tenenbaums” Los Angeles Premiere at El Capitan Theatre in Hollywood, California, United States | Source: Getty Images
Gene Hackman and wife Betsy Hackman attend 63rd Annual National Board of Review Awards on February 24, 1992 at the Equitable Center in New York City | Source: Getty Images
Christopher Allen Hackman and Gene Hackman in Pebble Beach, California, on July 7, 1973 | Source: Getty Images
The transition to writing novels was both a natural progression and a therapeutic endeavor for Hackman. “It’s very relaxing for me,” Hackman admitted, discussing the process behind their novel, “Escape From Andersonville: A Novel Of The Civil War.”
Actor Gene Hackman and daughters Elizabeth Hackman and Leslie Hackman at the screening of “Superman” on December 10, 1978, at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. | Source: Getty Images
Gene Hackman & wife Betsy Arakawa during The 60th Annual Golden Globe Awards – Arrivals at The Beverly Hilton Hotel in Beverly Hills, California, United States | Source: Getty Images
Hackman highlighted his retirement in a 2011 interview and revealed that he still channeled his creativity into writing and painting. When probed about the possibility of returning to acting, his response was tentative, hinting at a desire for simplicity: “I don’t know. If I could do it in my own house, maybe, without them disturbing anything and just one or two people.”
Gene Hackman at Wyndham Hotel in New Orleans, Louisiana | Source: Getty Images
Gene Hackman during the 60th Annual Golden Globe Awards held at the Beverly Hilton Hotel on January 19, 2003. | Source: Getty Images
Gene Hackman, circa 1965 | Source: Getty Images
American actor Gene Hackman pictured in the movie “The French Connection” | Source: Getty Images
His filmography is a testament to his versatile and dynamic acting prowess, earning him critical acclaim and a legion of fans worldwide. Among his numerous roles, Hackman is perhaps most celebrated for his riveting performances in classics such as “The French Connection,” “Mississippi Burning,” “The Royal Tenenbaums,” “Unforgiven,” and the “Superman” films.
However, Hackman’s contributions to cinema extend far beyond these landmark films. His diverse range of characters includes memorable roles in “Welcome to Mooseport” (2004), “Runaway Jury” (2003), and “Behind Enemy Lines” (2001).
American actors Gene Hackman, Warren Beatty, and Faye Dunaway on the set of “Bonnie and Clyde” | Source: Getty Images
In the early 2000s, he also starred in “Heist” (2001), “Heartbreakers” (2001), “The Mexican” (2001), and “The Replacements” (2000), further solidifying his status as a bankable leading man.
Notably, his portrayals in “Enemy of the State” (1998), “The Birdcage” (1996), and “Crimson Tide” (1995) were met with both commercial success and critical acclaim. His earlier work includes the iconic “Superman” series, where his role as Lex Luthor from “Superman” (1978) to “Superman IV: The Quest for Peace” (1987) highlighted his versatility and skill in portraying villains.
Through these films and many others, Hackman’s enduring legacy in the film industry is firmly cemented, offering a rich catalog of performances that continue to captivate audiences around the globe.