Importance Score: 40 / 100 🔵
Handwritten Notes Reveal Intimate Glimpse into Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa’s Relationship
Santa Fe, NM – Intimate handwritten notes discovered within the home of late actor Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, offer a poignant look into their loving relationship. The notes were found scattered throughout their residence following their deaths in February, according to photos released by the Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office.
Affectionate Messages Uncovered
Images provided by authorities reveal several personal notes exchanged between Hackman and Arakawa. One message from Hackman expressed “good morning” wishes and acknowledged Arakawa’s birthday, offering a lighthearted apology regarding a dinner and expressing gratitude for her assistance. “Sorry still about the dinner and having to ask for your help, although it was appreciated. Love you and the guys,” Hackman penned.
Humorous Banter in Daily Life
Another inscription from the Oscar-winning actor displayed his playful side. In it, Hackman humorously described heading to an outbuilding on their property, near a “hot water place,” joking about forgetting its purpose. The note concluded with a loving signature, “Love, what’s his name.”
Betsy Arakawa’s Updates and Affection
Arakawa also communicated with Hackman through notes. One message detailed her plans for the day, mentioning taking their dog to a class and a veterinary appointment. She signed off affectionately as “Xo B,” adding, “See you back at home! There is a jigsaw puzzle on the table.”
Observing Nature Together
Further revealing their shared life, Hackman also wrote to Arakawa about spotting baby robins outside their shower, providing directions for her to see them. His note expressed hope that she too would enjoy the sight, adding, “Hope you get to see them.”

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Couple’s Passing and Family Remembrance
Gene Hackman, aged 95, and Betsy Arakawa, aged 65, were discovered deceased at their home in February. Following news of their passing, Hackman’s daughters, Elizabeth Jean and Leslie Anne, along with granddaughter Annie, issued a statement. Hackman also shared son Christopher Allen with former spouse Faye Maltese.
Family Statement on Loss
“It is with profound sadness that we announce the death of our father, Gene Hackman, and his wife, Betsy,” the family conveyed in a statement to Us Weekly. “He was cherished by admirers globally for his iconic acting career, but to us, he was simply Dad and Grandpa. We will deeply miss him and are heartbroken by this loss.”
Details Surrounding Their Deaths
Official reports indicate Gene Hackman’s cause of death was hypertensive atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, with Alzheimer’s disease as a contributing factor. While authorities estimate Hackman’s death occurred on February 18, Arakawa’s likely occurred on February 12. Betsy Arakawa’s cause of death was determined to be Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS), a rare respiratory illness transmitted through rodent exposure.
Private Memorial Held
It has been reported that the acclaimed actor and Arakawa were interred earlier this month. People magazine stated that a private memorial service took place in Santa Fe, New Mexico, attended by Hackman’s three children.