The death of Gene Hackman at the age of 95 has generated a great impact, as it occurred a few days before the Oscar ceremony. The British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) expressed their sorrow over the famous actor's death in a statement shared on social media. 'We are saddened to hear that actor Gene Hackman has passed away at the age of 95,' they stated.
Screenwriter and film producer Francis Ford Coppola also joined the condolences through his Instagram account, writing: 'The loss of a great artist is always a reason for mourning and celebration: Gene Hackman, a great actor, inspiring and magnificent in his work and complexity.'
Gene Hackman was found dead in his home in New Mexico alongside his wife, Betsy Arakawa, and their dog. The circumstances of his death are strange, similar to those of actress Michelle Trachtenberg, who was found dead a day earlier in New York.
The Santa Fe County Sheriff confirmed the death of Gene Hackman and his wife, explaining that emergency teams were sent to the actor's residence after a neighbor reported concern for his well-being. So far, no signs of foul play have been found, and the exact causes remain unknown.
It has been speculated that Gene Hackman's death could have been caused by carbon monoxide poisoning, although this has not been officially confirmed. The two-time Oscar winner left behind a broad career in which he played various roles, from action and suspense films to comedies.
Hackman retired from acting 20 years ago to fully dedicate himself to writing novels. Investigations into his death are ongoing, and the results of the autopsy might take 4 to 6 weeks to be revealed, according to a spokesperson for the New Mexico medical investigator's office. Gene Hackman, born on January 30, 1930, in California, is remembered for his talent and versatility on screen.
