Gene Hackman’s health declined in final months before passing, say longtime friends

Gene Hackman’s close friends reveal his declining health, wife Betsy Arakawa’s care efforts.

New details have emerged about Gene Hackman’s final months, with close friends revealing the acting legend’s declining health. Hackman, 95, was found dead in his Santa Fe, New Mexico, home on February 26 alongside his wife, Betsy Arakawa, 65, and one of their three dogs.

Longtime family friends Daniel and Barbara Lenihan, who had known Hackman for over 30 years, spoke to People about his condition leading up to his passing. According to Daniel, Hackman had become "essentially kind of homebound," while Barbara noted that he had stopped his routine bike rides through the neighborhood. Their son, Aaron Lenihan, added that Arakawa had been making efforts to keep Hackman engaged, incorporating puzzles and yoga into his daily routine.

“She was still trying to keep him as active and engaged and healthy as possible,” Aaron told People. He also recalled that Arakawa took precautions against COVID-19, frequently wearing a mask in public. Despite her efforts, Hackman’s health continued to decline. His passing, along with his wife’s, remains under investigation as authorities work to piece together the timeline of events.

While the cause of death remains under investigation, officials noted that the last recorded activity on Hackman’s pacemaker suggests he died on February 17, over a week before their bodies were discovered. Authorities have yet to determine whether Hackman or Arakawa died first.

Despite his health struggles, Hackman and Arakawa’s relationship remained strong, according to the Lenihan family. “They were one of the tightest couples I’ve seen,” Aaron said, adding that they remained “incredibly kind” and “real life partners.”

Tributes have poured in from across Hollywood. During the 2025 Oscars, Morgan Freeman honored Hackman, recalling his humility about his legacy. “Gene always said, ‘I just hope people remember me as someone who tried to do good work,’” Freeman said. As Hollywood mourns, Hackman’s dedication to his craft and impact on cinema continue to be remembered, ensuring that his legacy extends far beyond the screen.