Gene Hackman's cause of death revealed

By Neil Wilkes, Editor-in-chief

Published: April 29 2025 | 02:00

Last updated: April 30 2025 | 01:00

Gene Hackman died as a result of heart disease, Alzheimer's disease and a lack of food, according to a coroner's report.

Legendary actor Gene Hackman died as a result of heart disease, Alzheimer's disease and a lack of food, according to a coroner's report.

The two-time Oscar winner was discovered dead in his New Mexico home in February, with the body of his wife Betsy Arakawa, 65, also being found elsewhere in the property.

Arakawa is thought to have died suddenly on February 12 from the rare hantavirus disease, while Hackman - aged 95 - passed away on February 18 in a different part of their home.

Hackman is believed to have been suffering from Alzheimer's disease for some time and police suspect that he may not have been able to care for himself adequately without assistance.

The results of the autopsy showed that Hackman had no food in his system at the time he died, while noting other contributing factors.

It said: "Autopsy showed severe atherosclerotic and hypertensive cardiovascular disease, with placement of coronary artery stents and a bypass graft, as well as a previous aortic valve replacement."

Arakawa was listed as the sole beneficiary in Hackman's will, while her will specified that if the couple died within 90 days of each other then the proceeds would go to charity.