Gene Hackman, the acclaimed actor known for his Oscar-winning roles in "The French Connection" and "Unforgiven", has passed away at 95, along with his wife, classical pianist Betsy Arakawa, aged 63. The couple was found dead yesterday afternoon at their Santa Fe, New Mexico, home, the Santa Fe County Sheriff's office confirmed. While the cause of death is still under investigation, there are no immediate signs of foul play, authorities reported.

Sheriff's deputies responded to a call at the couple's residence, where they discovered Hackman, Arakawa, and their dog. In a statement, Sheriff Adan Mendoza emphasised that there was no threat to the public. "We're in the middle of a preliminary death investigation, waiting on approval of a search warrant," he said before the identities were officially confirmed.

Hackman, a towering figure in American cinema, was one of the most revered actors of his generation. His range, charisma, and grace on screen made him a household name. From his first major role as Clyde Barrow's older brother in "Bonnie and Clyde" (1967) to his defining portrayal of the rogue cop Jimmy "Popeye" Doyle in "The French Connection" (1971), Hackman solidified his place among Hollywood's elite.

His performance in "The French Connection" earned him an Academy Award for Best Actor, a recognition that came after years of steady work in television and theatre. He was soon regarded as one of the industry's finest, known for his ability to embody roles ranging from lower-class characters to high-powered executives seamlessly. His versatility, akin to legends like James Cagney and Humphrey Bogart, allowed him to transcend typecasting.

Throughout his illustrious career, Hackman delivered memorable performances in numerous films, including his iconic turn as Lex Luthor in the "Superman" films, his role as a basketball coach in "Hoosiers", and as an FBI agent in "Mississippi Burning", which garnered him a fourth Oscar nomination.

Even as Hackman approached his later years, he delivered powerful performances. His portrayal of a journalist embroiled in a Central American revolution in "Under Fire" (1983) and his gripping role in "Crimson Tide" (1995) are just a few examples of his enduring talent. His final film appearance came in 2004's "Welcome to Mooseport", after which he retired from acting.

Hackman's legacy extends beyond the screen. A passionate writer, he co-authored several novels with underwater archaeologist Daniel Lenihan, including "Wake of the Perdido Star" (1999) and "Escape From Andersonville" (2008). Hackman also wrote solo works, including "Payback at Morning Peak" (2011).

Born in San Bernardino, California, Hackman's early life was far from the glamour of Hollywood. At 16, he enlisted in the Marine Corps, serving in Shanghai, Hawaii, and Japan. After his military service, Hackman briefly studied journalism at the University of Illinois before pursuing acting at the Pasadena Playhouse. His early years in New York saw him struggle to find steady work, but his perseverance eventually paid off, leading to a distinguished career.

Hackman was married twice, first to Faye Maltese, with whom he had three children before their divorce in 1986. In 1991, he married Betsy Arakawa, a classical pianist, with whom he spent the final years of his life in Santa Fe.

His death marks the end of an era for Hollywood, as Hackman was not only an exceptional actor but also a symbol of an era of cinema that prized character-driven performances over spectacle. Hackman leaves behind a body of work that will continue to resonate with audiences and remain a cornerstone of American film history.

He is survived by his children, Christopher, Elizabeth, and Leslie.

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