Gene Hackman, a beloved award-winning actor, was known for his love of pranks. His friend and former business partner, Doug Lanham, shared a story of Hackman repaying a debt in $22 worth of pennies in a tool chest. Lanham and Hackman became friends when the actor and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, visited Lanham’s restaurant in Santa Fe, New Mexico. They later became business partners.
Unfortunately, Hackman and Arakawa were found dead in their home in Santa Fe under suspicious circumstances. Their deaths are still being investigated, as an initial autopsy showed no sign of external trauma or carbon monoxide poisoning. Hackman’s pacemaker recorded an event on Feb. 17, suggesting that may have been the date of his death.
Lanham described the couple as private individuals who helped many local businesses financially without seeking any credit. Hackman, known for his 14 original paintings in Jinja Bar & Bistro, did not sign any of them to draw attention away from himself. Their unexpected deaths have left Lanham and others devastated, as they remember Hackman as a dignified and compassionate friend.
Friends and acquaintances, such as Stuart Ashman and Jesse Kesler, praised Hackman for his down-to-earth and genuine personality. Kesler shared his gratitude for the opportunity to work alongside a legend like Hackman. Despite the mystery surrounding their deaths, Hackman’s impact on Santa Fe and those around him remains strong.
Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image associated with the presented article. Due to copyright reasons, we are unable to use the original images. However, you can still enjoy the accurate and up-to-date content and information provided.
