Gene Hackman, an American actor and novelist, amassed a net worth of $80 million before his passing in 2025. Over his six-decade career, Hackman became one of Hollywood’s most respected and versatile actors, starring in critically acclaimed films and earning multiple prestigious awards. His financial success stemmed from his iconic film roles, lucrative contracts, and later ventures in writing. Despite retiring from acting in 2004, Hackman continued earning from book royalties and past film royalties.
Early Life and Background
Eugene Allen Hackman was born on January 30, 1930, in San Bernardino, California. His father, Eugene Sr., worked as a printing press operator, and his mother, Anna, was a homemaker. Hackman’s early life was tumultuous—his parents divorced in 1943, and his father abandoned the family, leaving Gene and his brother, Richard, to grow up without a strong paternal figure.
After moving through several cities, Hackman settled in Danville, Illinois, where he developed an interest in acting at just 10 years old. However, his education took a backseat when he dropped out of Storm Lake High School in Iowa at the age of 16 to join the U.S. Marine Corps. Hackman, who had lied about his age, served as a field radio operator for 4.5 years before being honorably discharged in 1951.
Following his military service, Hackman studied television production and journalism at the University of Illinois before moving to Los Angeles to pursue acting. In 1956, he enrolled at the Pasadena Playhouse Theatre, where he met and became close friends with fellow struggling actor Dustin Hoffman. They later became roommates in New York City in 1957.
Hollywood Breakthrough and Career Highlights
Gene Hackman’s acting career officially began in the late 1950s, but it wasn’t until 1967 that he gained significant recognition. His breakthrough role came when he played Buck Barrow in “Bonnie and Clyde”, earning his first Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor.
1970s: Rise to Stardom
Hackman’s career skyrocketed in the 1970s with a series of critically acclaimed performances. He turned down the lead role in The Brady Bunch on his agent’s advice, opting for serious dramatic roles. In 1971, he delivered a powerhouse performance as Detective Jimmy “Popeye” Doyle in The French Connection, which won him his first Academy Award for Best Actor.
He continued his hot streak with standout roles in:
- The Poseidon Adventure (1972)
- The Conversation (1974) – won National Board of Review Best Actor
- Young Frankenstein (1974) – displayed his comedic talents
- Superman (1978) – portrayed the legendary villain Lex Luthor, a role he reprised in 1980 and 1987.
1980s: Career Evolution
In the 1980s, Hackman solidified his reputation as one of Hollywood’s most versatile actors. Some of his most memorable roles during this decade included:
- Hoosiers (1986) – played an inspirational basketball coach
- Mississippi Burning (1988) – earned an Academy Award nomination for his role as an FBI agent
- No Way Out (1987) and Bat (1981) – further demonstrated his range.
1990s: Second Oscar and Continued Success
The 1990s saw a career resurgence for Hackman. His standout roles included:
- 1992: Unforgiven – won his second Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor
- 1993: The Firm – played a corrupt lawyer
- 1995: Crimson Tide – starred alongside Denzel Washington
- 2001: The Royal Tenenbaums – received widespread critical acclaim.
Retirement from Acting
In 2004, Gene Hackman retired from acting after starring in Welcome to Mooseport. Despite stepping away from Hollywood, he continued contributing to storytelling as a novelist.
Personal Life and Family
Gene Hackman was married twice. His first marriage to Faye Maltese lasted from 1956 to 1986, and they had three children: Christopher, Elizabeth, and Leslie. However, Hackman admitted he was not always present in their early years due to his demanding career.
In 1991, Hackman married Betsy Arakawa, a classical pianist. The couple lived a quiet life in Santa Fe, New Mexico, where Hackman focused on his passion for writing and racing.
Writing Career
After retiring from acting, Hackman pursued writing, co-authoring several novels, including:
- Wake of the Perdido Star (1999)
- Justice for None (2004)
- Escape from Andersonville (2008)
- Payback at Morning Peak (2011)
- Pursuit (2013).
His historical fiction novels, written in collaboration with undersea archaeologist Daniel Lenihan, were well-received by readers and critics alike.
Death and Estate Settlement
On February 26, 2025, Hackman and his wife Betsy Arakawa were found deceased at their home in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Investigators determined that Betsy had died on February 11, 2025, from hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, while Hackman, who had been suffering from advanced Alzheimer’s, passed away on February 18, 2025, from severe heart disease. His pacemaker helped investigators determine his exact time of death. Gene Hackman was 95 years old.
Estate and Will
Gene Hackman’s estate became a matter of legal discussion due to an unusual clause in his wife’s will. Hackman had signed a will in 1995, naming Betsy as his sole beneficiary. However, Betsy’s will included a 90-day simultaneous death clause, which meant that since both died within 90 days, Betsy’s assets went to charity. Meanwhile, Hackman’s portion of the estate was left to his three children.
Legacy and Impact
Gene Hackman’s legacy as an actor remains unparalleled. With two Academy Awards, four Golden Globes, and two BAFTAs, his impact on Hollywood is undeniable. He left behind a portfolio of unforgettable performances, proving his ability to adapt, evolve, and master both dramatic and comedic roles.
Though he stepped away from the spotlight, his work in film and literature continues to inspire and entertain audiences. His contributions to cinema and storytelling ensure that his name remains a permanent fixture in entertainment history.
