Who Was Gene Hackman’s Wife? Meet Betsy Arakawa & Kids

Hollywood has seen many love stories, but few have been as enduring as Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa’s. The two-time Oscar-winning actor and his wife were together for over three decades, sharing a life of love, companionship, and mutual support. Their relationship stood the test of time, proving that love knows no age or industry pressures.

Who Was Gene Hackman Married To?

Gene Hackman was married to Betsy Arakawa. The couple tied the knot in 1991 and remained together until their passing in 2025. They lived a quiet life away from Hollywood, settling in Santa Fe, New Mexico, where they built a home that reflected their unique blend of modern aesthetics and southwestern charm.

Before Betsy, Hackman was married to Faye Maltese, with whom he had three children: Christopher Allen, Leslie Anne, and Elizabeth Jean. Though Betsy did not have children of her own, she embraced her role as a loving stepmother.

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How Did Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa Meet?

Their love story began in the 1980s when they met at a gym. Despite an age gap of over 30 years, their connection was undeniable. By 1990, they had moved in together, and a year later, they made it official. Throughout their marriage, they prioritized their privacy, preferring a peaceful life over Hollywood’s fast-paced, high-profile scene.

Did Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa Have Kids?

No, Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa did not have children together. However, Arakawa was a devoted stepmother to Hackman’s three kids from his first marriage. Family was always important to Hackman, and despite his fame, he remained a dedicated father and husband.

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Gene Hackman’s Retirement & Life with Betsy Arakawa

By the time Hackman and Arakawa got together, the actor was already considering retirement. He officially stepped away from acting in 2004, shifting his focus to writing.

Health concerns also played a role in his decision. In 1990, Hackman underwent an angioplasty due to artery blockage. This health scare made him reconsider the physically demanding nature of acting. Instead, he turned to literature, publishing several books, including three historical novels co-written with Daniel Lenihan and two solo works. His final novel, Pursuit, was released in 2013.

Throughout this journey, Betsy was his rock. He often credited her for shaping his career as an author, stating that her keen eye and feedback helped refine his writing style.

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Gene Hackman’s Net Worth & Legacy

At the time of his passing, Gene Hackman had an estimated net worth of $80 million. His career spanned over five decades, with iconic roles in The French Connection, Unforgiven, and The Royal Tenenbaums. Even in retirement, he remained a celebrated figure in Hollywood, his influence continuing to inspire new generations of actors.

A Love That Lasted

Despite the age difference and the pressures of Hollywood, Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa’s relationship thrived. They enjoyed simple pleasures like movie nights and quiet dinners, preferring low-key moments over the glitz and glamour of Hollywood.

Their home in Santa Fe was a sanctuary, where they could live without the constant buzz of industry gossip. It was a testament to their shared values—love, privacy, and a deep appreciation for the life they built together.

Their story isn’t just one of Hollywood romance but of companionship, respect, and unwavering support. Hackman and Arakawa proved that true love isn’t about grand gestures or headlines—it’s about the quiet, everyday moments that make a life truly meaningful.