The world is mourning the loss of legendary actor Gene Hackman, who was found dead in his Santa Fe, New Mexico, home on Wednesday. His wife, Betsy Arakawa, and their beloved dog were also discovered deceased alongside him. Hackman, who had recently celebrated his 95th birthday, was an iconic Hollywood figure, making his sudden passing even more shocking and heartbreaking.

Authorities were alerted after a concerned neighbor requested a welfare check, leading to the devastating discovery. While initial reports indicate no obvious signs of foul play, the cause of death remains under investigation.

Hackman’s daughter, Elizabeth Jean Hackman, shared a possible explanation for the tragedy in a statement to TMZ, suggesting that carbon monoxide poisoning might have been the cause. She noted that while their house, built in 2000, was relatively modern, they were unsure if there had been any gas leaks or issues with the heating system. Following the discovery, gas company officials and fire department personnel arrived on the scene to ensure there were no lingering toxic fumes that could pose further danger.

Hackman’s passing is particularly poignant as he had spent his later years living a quiet, private life away from Hollywood. After officially retiring from acting in 2004, he and his wife moved to New Mexico, where he dedicated his time to painting and enjoying a peaceful existence. Despite his retreat from the public eye, Hackman’s cinematic legacy remained as strong as ever. Over the course of his career, he appeared in more than 70 films, with many citing his performance in The French Connection as one of his finest and most defining roles.

In a 2009 interview, Hackman revealed that health concerns played a major role in his decision to step away from acting. He recalled undergoing a stress test in New York that led him to rethink his career path. “The straw that broke the camel’s back was actually a stress test,” he told Empire. “The doctor advised me that my heart wasn’t in the kind of shape that I should be putting it under any stress.” That revelation solidified his choice to step away from the spotlight and focus on his well-being.

Though Elizabeth did not directly address her father’s long-term health issues, she did reference a rare public sighting last March, where Hackman was seen using a cane and being supported by Betsy. At the time, his frail appearance raised concerns among fans about his overall well-being.

Hackman and Arakawa shared a deep bond, having been married since 1991. Their three decades together were filled with love and companionship, making their sudden passing even more tragic. Their deaths have left many questions unanswered, and the Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office, under the leadership of Sheriff Adan Mendoza, is actively investigating the circumstances. While there are no signs of foul play, authorities are carefully examining all possible causes to ensure a thorough understanding of the situation.

As news of Hackman’s passing spread, tributes poured in from fans, fellow actors, and Hollywood figures who admired his work and influence. Many took to social media to express their grief and celebrate his extraordinary career. From his Academy Award-winning role as Popeye Doyle in The French Connection to his unforgettable performances in Unforgiven and The Conversation, Hackman’s contributions to cinema have left an undeniable mark on the industry. His talent, versatility, and ability to bring complex characters to life have solidified his place as one of the greatest actors of his generation.

While the investigation into his passing continues, the Hackman family remains focused on finding answers to this heartbreaking tragedy. The possibility of carbon monoxide poisoning raises concerns about home safety, serving as a reminder for others to regularly check heating systems, gas lines, and carbon monoxide detectors to prevent similar tragedies.

Hackman’s death marks the end of an era, but his legacy will continue to inspire generations of actors and film enthusiasts. His ability to captivate audiences with his performances, his dedication to his craft, and his remarkable presence on screen have ensured that he will never be forgotten. As fans grieve his passing, they also celebrate the incredible body of work he left behind, a testament to his enduring impact on the world of cinema.