Gene Hackman, wife's cause of death revealed: Cardiovascular disease and Alzheimer's with hantavirus complication
Gene Hackman, the legendary Hollywood actor, passed away at the age of 95, with officials from New Mexico confirming on Friday that severe cardiovascular disease was the primary cause of death, compounded by advanced Alzheimer’s disease. Hackman, who enjoyed a four-decade career in Hollywood, spent his final years with his wife, Betsy Hackman, in their Santa Fe home. Tragically, Betsy Hackman passed away earlier, succumbing to hantavirus pulmonary syndrome—a severe respiratory disease caused by viruses transmitted from rodents.
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Hackman and his wife were discovered on February 26 during a wellness check in separate rooms of their home. Police reported that neither of the individuals showed signs of external trauma, although Hackman’s pacemaker data indicated he had passed away at least a week prior to their discovery. The pacemaker recorded its last heartbeat on February 17, showing an abnormal rhythm by February 18. Authorities speculated that Betsy had died before him, with February 11 being the last confirmed date she was seen alive.
Autopsy Results and Health Conditions
The Santa Fe County Sheriff, Adan Mendoza, clarified there was no foul play involved in the deaths of the couple. Gene Hackman’s autopsy revealed severe heart disease, including evidence of multiple heart surgeries and past heart attacks. Additionally, the actor's brain showed signs of advanced Alzheimer's disease and chronic high blood pressure, which contributed to changes in his brain's blood vessels. Despite these conditions, no food or dehydration was noted at the time of his death, although officials confirmed he was in a very poor health state.
At the same time, Hackman’s autopsy did not indicate any signs of hantavirus infection. Meanwhile, Betsy Hackman died from hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, which is transmitted through contact with infected rodents. This disease typically presents flu-like symptoms before progressing to respiratory distress and organ failure. Betsy was last seen shopping on February 11 and had no further communication afterward.
Investigation and Findings
In a press conference on March 7, Dr. Heather Jarrell, New Mexico’s Chief Medical Examiner, provided additional details about the autopsies. The couple’s dog, Zinnia, an Australian Kelpie mix, was also found deceased in their home, though officials suspect the dog was kept in a crate due to recent surgery.
Gene Hackman’s extensive career in Hollywood spanned various genres, including thrillers, comedies, and dramas. Known for his gritty roles, Hackman won two Academy Awards: Best Actor for The French Connection (1971) and Best Supporting Actor for Unforgiven (1992). He also appeared in memorable films like Young Frankenstein (1974), Superman (1978), Get Shorty (1995), The Birdcage (1996), and The Royal Tenenbaums (2001).
After his final film role in Welcome to Mooseport (2004), Hackman retired from acting to enjoy a quieter life in Santa Fe with his wife and their dogs. The couple had been living privately, focusing on local investments and writing, far removed from the Hollywood spotlight.
The investigation into their deaths is ongoing, with authorities working to piece together the timeline and health conditions leading to this tragic event.
