It’s not every day you see a Hollywood legend making headlines for something other than his incredible performances. But that’s exactly what happened when Gene Hackman, 94, and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, 62, were spotted out together in Santa Fe, New Mexico, on March 28. This rare public appearance marks the first time the couple has been seen together since 2003, making it a big deal for fans who have wondered about their lives away from the cameras.
Caught Enjoying Dinner Together
Gene and Betsy were seen having what looked like a lovely evening out at Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen. Photos from the outing show Gene, who walked with the help of a cane, leaning on Betsy’s arm as they made their way into the restaurant. He was dressed casually in a plaid shirt, a gray vest, green cargo pants, and sneakers, topped off with a baseball hat. It’s clear that comfort was key for this outing, and who could blame him? Earlier in the day, Gene was also seen grabbing a coffee, which just goes to show that even icons need their caffeine fix.
A Decade of Privacy
This outing is significant because it’s the first time Gene and Betsy have been photographed together since their red carpet appearance at the Golden Globe Awards back in 2003. That evening, Gene was honored with the Cecil B. DeMille Award, one of the most prestigious accolades in Hollywood. Betsy was by his side, supporting him as he was celebrated for his incredible contributions to the world of film. It’s been over two decades since then, and fans have been curious about how the couple spends their time away from the spotlight.
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Family Life and Career Choices
Gene and Betsy don’t have children together, but Gene is a proud father to Leslie, Elizabeth, and Christopher from his previous marriage to Faye Maltese. While he may have stepped away from the world of acting, his legacy continues to inspire new generations of actors. Since his last on-screen role in 2004’s Welcome to Mooseport, Gene has remained largely out of the public eye, focusing on personal pursuits and enjoying life with Betsy.
Gene has been candid about his decision to step away from acting. In a 2008 interview with Reuters, he explained, “I haven’t held a press conference to announce retirement, but yes, I’m not going to act any longer. I’ve been told not to say that over the last few years, in case some real wonderful part comes up, but I really don’t want to do it any longer.” It’s clear that Gene values his privacy and is content with the life he’s built outside of Hollywood.
A Legacy of Hits and Misses
Gene’s career is marked by a series of unforgettable performances that have left an indelible mark on cinema history. Even years after his last role, he took time to reflect on his career, particularly his work on The French Connection. In a 2021 interview with The New York Post, he said, “Filmmaking has always been risky — both physically and emotionally — but I do choose to consider that film a moment in a checkered career of hits and misses.” This kind of honesty is what makes Gene such a respected figure in the industry.
Since then, Gene has continued to live a quiet life away from the spotlight. According to an insider, “His health is good, he still bicycles, does yard work and he’s a great handyman. After all the drama of Gene’s career, he loves the peaceful life he shares with the lovely Betsy.” It’s a testament to the kind of life Gene has built for himself, one that prioritizes simplicity and happiness.
