Movies

Francis Ford Coppola, George Takei and others honor Gene Hackman: ‘One of the true giants of the screen’

BBG News

On Thursday, Hollywood actors and directors, including Francis Ford Coppola and Antonio Banderas, paid tribute to the passing of Gene Hackman, a renowned actor. The 95-year-old, who earned his Oscars for performances in “The French Connection” (1971) and Clint Eastwood’s “Unforgiven,” was discovered dead alongside his wife, Betsy Arakawa, and their pet dog at their residence in New Mexico on Wednesday.

After hearing about his passing, people who had worked with him before and admired his performances have been posting tributes on social media in memory of the actor famous for “Bonnie and Clyde”.

Coppola, the director behind “The Conversation” where Hackman portrayed Harry Caul – a conflicted surveillance specialist – shared a throwback photo from set. This classic movie was released in 1974.

Coppola wrote that the demise of a remarkable artist is a time for both sorrow and jubilation: Gene Hackman, an exceptional actor, was inspiring and magnificent in his craft and character. I grieve over his passing, yet rejoice in his life and impact.

Obituaries

Legendary actor Gene Hackman made his big break in the movie “Bonnie and Clyde” and subsequently achieved star status with “The French Connection.” Remarkably, he lived to be 95 years old.

Viola Davis, an EGOT award-winning actress, posted on Instagram, “You were outstanding in every role! From ‘The Conversation’ and ‘The French Connection,’ to ‘The Poseidon Adventure’ and ‘Unforgiven,’ you displayed a remarkable mix of strength and vulnerability. Truly one of the greats. May those who loved you find peace. Rest in peace, sir.

Banderas expressed, “It’s a deeply sad day for the film community. Gene Hackman and his wife Betsy Arakawa have sadly passed away. My heartfelt sympathies go out to friends, family, and cinema enthusiasts everywhere. Rest in peace,” accompanied by a photo of the departed couple.

Paul Feig, creator of “Freaks and Geeks” and “Bridesmaids” director, called the news, “So awful.”

Gene was an inspiration to countless film enthusiasts, like myself, with his exceptional performances. His portrayal in ‘The Conversation’ reshaped my perspective on acting and the depth an actor can bring to a character. His career was nothing short of remarkable. Farewell, Mr. Hackman,” Feig expressed on platform X.

California

In an unexpected turn of events, I found myself writing this piece after learning about the discovery of Gene Hackman’s passing in Santa Fe on a typical Wednesday afternoon, following a routine welfare check, according to authorities.

“Star Trek” actor George Takei called Hackman “one of the true giants of the screen.”

Gene Hackman possessed the ability to embody any character, and there was always a sense of lived experience behind it. He could portray both towering figures and ordinary people, demonstrating the immense power of his acting skills. His absence will be felt, but his performances will endure eternally,” the author remarked.

As a devoted cinephile, I’m deeply saddened by the untimely passing of Gene Hackman and his beloved wife Betsy Arakawa, along with their cherished dog. The news has left me feeling utterly crushed. Hackman was undeniably one of my favorite actors, a true maverick who marched to the beat of his own drum. Rest in Peace, legend.

“Shaun of the Dead” director Edgar Wright simply said Hackman was “the greatest.”

The Santa Fe County sheriff’s investigation into the deaths of Hackman and Arakawa continues, with the office stating that they currently do not suspect any form of wrongdoing or unnatural causes.

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2025-02-27 20:01

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