Gene Hackman and his wife found dead in New Mexico; what happened?

Hollywood has been shaken by the death of one of its most legendary actors: Gene Hackman. The actor was 95 years old, but the way he died has so far remained mysterious.

The actor, winner of two Oscars ('The French Connection', 1972 and 'Unforgiven', 1993) has been found dead in his home in Santa Fe, New Mexico, according to the 'Santa Fe New Mexico'.

The actor's wife, pianist Betsy Arakawa (63 years old), also lay dead, along with his dog, as reported by the 'Santa Fe New Mexico'.

The lifeless bodies were found on the evening of February 26, and the Santa Fe Sheriff confirmed the couple's deaths just after midnight.

Speaking to BBC, the Santa Fe Sheriff confirmed that there is an "active investigation... however, at this time we do not believe that foul play was a factor."

The possible cause of death of the couple and their dog has not yet been reported. Speculation on social media is running rampant and, in many cases, not in the best of ways.

While waiting to learn the details of what happened, Hollywood is in shock because, despite having retired in 2008, Gene Hackman was still an icon in the field.

The actor was born in San Bernardino, California, on January 30, 1930. He grew up in Danville, Illinois. At the age of 16, he left home to join the U.S. Marine Corps, serving for four and a half years as a radio operator. After his military service, he studied journalism and television production at the University of Illinois. After that, he decided to pursue acting.

He began his career in the early 60s with 'Mad Dog Call' (1961). Seven years later, in 1968, he received his first Oscar nomination for 'Bonnie & Clyde', in which he played Buck Barrow.

Two years later, thanks to 'I Never Sang for My Father' (1970), he would obtain his second nomination for Best Supporting Actor.

The third time was the charm. Jimmy 'Popeye' Doyle's leading role in 'The French Connection' (1972) earned him one of the most unanimous Oscars in history. Gene Hackman was already a Hollywood legend.

The actor went on to star in such historical films as 'The Poseidon Adventure' (1972), 'Young Frankenstein' (1974), 'Superman' (1978) and 'Mississippi Burning' (1988) for which he received his fourth Oscar nomination.

In the 90s, with the help of Clint Eastwood, Gene Hackman won his second statuette. In this case, it was as his unforgettable Little Bill Daggett, the supporting role in 'Unforgiven' (1993).

The 21st century was one of absolute tranquility for Gene Hackman, who appeared in just a dozen films. In 2008, he announced his retirement to devote himself to literature and enjoying life and his marriage. He was 78 years old.

Personally, Gene Hackman was a close friend of Dustin Hoffman and Warren Beatty and a proud and convinced Democratic voter who did not hesitate to boast about having been included on Richard Nixon's enemies list.

Gene Hackman has passed away, but he leaves behind his cinematic legacy for eternity. Some may consider him to be one of the top three actors in history.

Follow Showbizz Daily to see the best photo galleries every day