• Faith: Unknown
• Career: Actor
• Birthday:  January 30, 1930
• Date of Death:  February 26, 2025

Gene Hackman, was a distinguished American actor whose career spanned over four decades. Hackman became renowned for his versatility and authentic portrayals, earning two Academy Awards and leaving an indelible mark on Hollywood.

Born on January 30, 1930, in San Bernardino, California, Hackman's early years were marked by frequent relocations. His parents, Eugene Ezra Hackman and Anna Lyda Elizabeth Gray, moved the family around before settling in Danville, Illinois, at his maternal grandmother's home. At the age of 13, his parents divorced, and his father left the family—a moment Hackman later recalled as profoundly impactful. At 16, Hackman lied about his age to enlist in the United States Marine Corps. He served as a field radio operator, with assignments in China, Hawaii, and Japan. After his discharge in 1951, he pursued journalism and television production at the University of Illinois but left before completing his studies. His mother's tragic death in 1962, caused by a fire she accidentally started while smoking, was another pivotal event in his life.

Hackman's acting aspirations led him to the Pasadena Playhouse in California, where he befriended fellow actors Dustin Hoffman and Robert Duvall. Despite being voted "least likely to succeed," Hackman persevered, moving to New York City to pursue stage roles. His Broadway debut in "Any Wednesday" (1964) garnered attention, leading to his film debut in "Lilith" the same year. His breakthrough came with the role of Buck Barrow in "Bonnie and Clyde" (1967), earning him an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor. This success was followed by a series of notable performances, including "The French Connection" (1971), where he portrayed Detective Jimmy "Popeye" Doyle, winning his first Academy Award for Best Actor. In "The Conversation" (1974), he delivered a critically acclaimed performance as surveillance expert Harry Caul. Hackman took on the iconic role of villain Lex Luthor in "Superman" (1978) and its sequels. His portrayal of the ruthless sheriff "Little" Bill Daggett in "Unforgiven" (1992) earned him a second Oscar, this time for Best Supporting Actor. Throughout the 1990s, Hackman showcased his range with roles in films like "The Firm" (1993), "Crimson Tide" (1995), and "The Birdcage" (1996). His final film appearance was in "Welcome to Mooseport" (2004), after which he announced his retirement from acting.

Hackman's illustrious career was decorated with numerous awards. He won two Academy Awards, three additional nominations, four Golden Globe Awards, and the prestigious Cecil B. DeMille Award for lifetime achievement. He also received two BAFTA Awards recognizing his outstanding performances. In 2003, he was honored with the Cecil B. DeMille Award at the Golden Globes for his contribution to the entertainment field.

Hackman married Faye Maltese in 1956, and the couple had three children: Christopher Allen, Elizabeth Jean, and Leslie Anne. They divorced in 1986 after three decades together. In 1991, he married classical pianist Betsy Arakawa, and they resided in Santa Fe, New Mexico, until their passing in 2025. After retiring from acting, Hackman turned to writing, co-authoring three historical fiction novels with undersea archaeologist Daniel Lenihan: "Wake of the Perdido Star" (1999), "Justice for None" (2004), and "Escape from Andersonville" (2008). He also penned two solo novels, "Payback at Morning Peak" (2011) and "Pursuit" (2013).

On February 26, 2025, Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, were found deceased in their Santa Fe home, along with their dog. Authorities reported no signs of foul play.

What religion was Gene Hackman?

Hackman was notably private about his personal beliefs and did not publicly affiliate with any particular religion. He maintained a low profile regarding his spiritual views throughout his life.