The estate of the late actor Gene Hackman is on the market for $6.25 million, following the tragic deaths of Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, in their New Mexico home. The couple was discovered on February 26, 2023, after both had passed away under distressing circumstances, a year before the property officially hit the market.
Hackman, who was 95 at the time of his death, and Arakawa, aged 65, were found in separate rooms of their residence. Their dog was also discovered deceased nearby. Arakawa succumbed to hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, a rare and potentially fatal disease transmitted by rodents, on February 11. Hackman followed a week later, his passing attributed to “heart disease with advanced Alzheimer’s disease as a significant contributory factor.”
Legacy of a Hollywood Icon
Regarded as one of the greatest actors of his generation, Hackman won two Academy Awards for his performances in The French Connection and Unforgiven. He and Arakawa, a talented pianist, were married in 1991 and lived at their approximately 13,000-square-foot gated estate for decades.
Despite the couple’s significant legacy, the listing agents, Tara S. Early and Rick Allen of Sotheby’s International Realty, stated they priced the property based on fair market value rather than attaching a celebrity premium. They emphasized the removal of all personal effects from the estate, which they hope will attract buyers who appreciate the property’s inherent qualities.
While acknowledging that the circumstances surrounding Hackman and Arakawa’s deaths may deter some potential buyers, Early noted, “There will be some buyers that are just averse to purchasing a property where a death has occurred. There are other buyers for whom that doesn’t matter. We are selling the property on its virtues and all of the positives.”
Property Features and Historical Context
The estate boasts extensive wooded land, a three-bedroom guesthouse, a putting green, a lap pool, and a hot tub. Despite the personal tragedies that unfolded within its walls, the property remains a testament to the couple’s life together.
Hackman had three children from his first marriage to Faye Maltese: a son, Christopher, and two daughters, Elizabeth and Leslie. He divorced Maltese in 1986. Following Arakawa’s death, it is believed Hackman survived for approximately a week, receiving care from her during the course of his own illness. Officials have stated that it remains unclear whether he was aware of his wife’s passing.
The family of Gene Hackman issued a heartfelt statement following his death, reflecting on his dual legacy as both an acclaimed actor and a devoted father and grandfather. “He was loved and admired by millions around the world for his brilliant acting career, but to us he was always just Dad and Grandpa. We will miss him sorely and are devastated by the loss,” they said.
As the estate enters the market, it stands as a poignant reminder of Hackman’s remarkable life and career, while also representing a significant opportunity for prospective buyers drawn to its unique history and features.
