Gene Hackman, the iconic actor famous for memorable performances in movies such as The French Connection and Unforgiven, has been leading a low-key existence with his wife, Betsy Arakawa, since retiring from Hollywood almost two decades ago. The pair, who wed in 1991, have preferred to keep out of the limelight, concentrating on family, simplicity, and common interests.
Hackman, 94, retired from acting in 2004 after a highly successful career that won him two Oscars and general admiration. Ever since, he and Arakawa, who was a pianist and singer, have lived a quiet life in Santa Fe, New Mexico. The couple is described by neighbors and friends as highly devoted to one another and interested in keeping a low profile.
“Gene and Betsy are very private people,” said a longtime neighbor. “They value their quiet life and have always been kind and down-to-earth. You’d never know he was a Hollywood star by the way they live.”
The lives of the couple are built around their mutual appreciation for art, literature, and nature. Hackman, who has written several books since his retirement, usually spends his time writing, while Arakawa prefers gardening and playing the piano. They are also enthusiastic supporters of local arts and culture, attending gallery openings and community events regularly.
Though they lead secluded lives, Hackman and Arakawa are strongly attached to their family. Hackman has six children from a previous marriage, and the two are reputed to be fond of their grandchildren as well. “Family means the world to them,” their friend said. “They have made a friendly and affectionate home where people are always included.”
Hackman retired, he explained, to be able to lead a fuller life: “I felt I had done everything,” he said in one of his rare interviews many years ago. “It was time to step back and enjoy life with Betsy and our family.” In Arakawa’s shadow, much younger than Hackman, his wife has remained a steadfast mainstay. Friends describe her as a calming influence who could bring balance and happiness to Hackman’s life. “Betsy is his solid rock,” said a close friend. “She is wonderfully supportive and has always encouraged him to follow his interests.”
The lasting power of their relationship is due, without doubt, to their common values and respect. Friends who are close to them say their deep respect for one another is perhaps best expressed in the fact that few even know they’re together. “They’re really partners in every sense of the word,” their neighbor said. “It is really wonderful to see how much they love each other.”
While Hackman and Arakawa continue to live in peace together, they remind us that sometimes bliss is just around the corner and that it can take the form of simplicity and attachment. For the great actor and his wife, the best role has been creating a life filled with love, imagination, and tranquility.
