Gene Hackman was a highly respected American actor known for his powerful performances in film. He gained fame through iconic roles in movies like The French Connection and Unforgiven. In this article, you’ll find details on his personal life, career achievements, family, and financial information.
Gene Hackman Quick Information
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Eugene Allen Hackman |
| Nick Name | Gene |
| Date of Birth | January 30, 1930 |
| Age (2026) | Deceased (aged 95) |
| Birthplace | San Bernardino, California, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Religion | Not Publicly Available |
| Profession | Actor, Novelist |
| Famous For | Academy Award-winning roles in The French Connection and Unforgiven |
| Height | 6 feet 2 inches (1.88 m) |
| Weight | 80 kg (176 lbs) |
| Eye Color | Blue |
| Hair Color | Gray |
| Marital Status | Married (until his death in 2025) |
| Body Type | Athletic |
| Shoe Size | Not Publicly Available |
| Father | Eugene Ezra Hackman |
| Mother | Anna Lyda Elizabeth Gray |
| Siblings | Richard Hackman (brother) |
| Spouse | Betsy Arakawa (m. 1991–2025), Faye Maltese (m. 1956–1986) |
| Children | Christopher Allen Hackman, Elizabeth Jean Hackman, Leslie Anne Hackman |
| Net Worth (2026) | $80 million (at the time of his death) |
| Monthly Income | Not Publicly Available |
| Annual Income | Not Publicly Available |
| Primary Income Source | Acting, Writing |
Career Highlights
Gene Hackman began his acting journey after serving in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1947 to 1951, where he worked as a radio operator. He studied acting at the Pasadena Playhouse in California, alongside future stars like Dustin Hoffman and Robert Duvall. Early on, he faced setbacks, including being voted “least likely to succeed” by his peers, but he persisted with off-Broadway plays and small TV roles in the 1950s and 1960s.
His breakthrough came in 1967 with a supporting role as Buck Barrow in Bonnie and Clyde, earning him his first Academy Award nomination. This led to starring roles, and in 1971, he won his first Oscar for Best Actor as the tough detective Jimmy “Popeye” Doyle in The French Connection. The 1970s were a peak period for Hackman, with memorable parts in films like The Poseidon Adventure (1972), where he played a heroic reverend, The Conversation (1974) directed by Francis Ford Coppola, and as the villainous Lex Luthor in Superman (1978). He reprised Luthor in sequels and earned praise for his range in dramas like Scarecrow (1973) and Night Moves (1975).
In the 1980s and 1990s, Hackman continued to shine in supporting roles. He received another Oscar nomination for Mississippi Burning (1988) as an FBI agent investigating civil rights murders. His second Academy Award came in 1992 for Best Supporting Actor in Unforgiven, portraying the ruthless sheriff Little Bill Daggett opposite Clint Eastwood. Other notable films include Hoosiers (1986), a sports drama about a basketball coach, The Firm (1993) with Tom Cruise, Crimson Tide (1995), and The Birdcage (1996) as a conservative senator. He also starred in The Royal Tenenbaums (2001), winning a Golden Globe for his comedic turn as the family patriarch.
Hackman retired from acting in 2004 after Welcome to Mooseport, citing health reasons following a heart stress test. Post-retirement, he focused on writing novels, co-authoring historical fiction like Wake of the Perdido Star (1999) and Escape from Andersonville (2008). Over his career, he appeared in over 100 films, won two Oscars, four Golden Globes, and two BAFTAs, and was honored with the Cecil B. DeMille Award in 2003. His work influenced generations of actors, known for his intense, authentic portrayals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Gene Hackman’s net worth in 2026?
Gene Hackman’s net worth was estimated at $80 million at the time of his death in 2025, primarily from his acting career and book sales.
How old is Gene Hackman?
Gene Hackman was born on January 30, 1930, and passed away at the age of 95 in 2025.
Is Gene Hackman married?
Yes, he was married to Betsy Arakawa from 1991 until her death in 2025, shortly before his own passing. He was previously married to Faye Maltese from 1956 to 1986.
What were Gene Hackman’s major awards?
He won two Academy Awards: Best Actor for The French Connection in 1971 and Best Supporting Actor for Unforgiven in 1992. He also received four Golden Globes and two BAFTAs.
What caused Gene Hackman’s death?
He died in February 2025 from complications related to heart disease, Alzheimer’s, and kidney issues, following the death of his wife.
Other Posts
1. Andy Byron Age, Height, Net Worth 2026, Wife, Biography
2. Chip Batchelder Age, Height, Net Worth 2026, Wife, Biography
Conclusion
Gene Hackman left an indelible mark on cinema through his versatile and compelling performances across decades. His legacy as one of Hollywood’s finest actors endures, inspiring fans and professionals alike with his dedication to the craft.
