Add a Memory
Make a Donation
Gene Hackman
1930 - 2025
Gene Hackman
1930 - 2025
Obituary
Guest Book
BORN
1930
DIED
2025
Gene Hackman Obituary
Gene Hackman was an Oscar-winning actor and novelist who starred in films including "The French Connection," "Mississippi Burning," and "Unforgiven."
We invite you to share condolences for Gene Hackman in our Guest Book.
Read the full obituary in Legacy's headline news section.
(Photo: Ron Davis/Getty Images)
94 Entries
Gail Cromie
Earlier today
Love you. Xxxx
JT Atkinson
June 11, 2025
My favorite Gene Hackman is "No Way Out". I'm watching it now on cable from Plano, Texas in my hotel room.
Gail Cromie
June 5, 2025
Love you always. Xx
Gail Cromie
May 12, 2025
To the best actor that we'll ever have seen.
Thank you for sharing your talent with us.
Sorry it had to end.
Loved you xxx
How you can show support
Leo Murphy
April 30, 2025
Gene , will truly be missed....
Richard Stratton
April 29, 2025
Was amazing in Mississippi Burning, consistently selected quality roles which showcased his stellar acting skills. A legend and an outstanding inspiration, will be missed and remembered. RIP Mr. Hackman.
Janet Casey
April 28, 2025
Thank you for the memories!
Janet S. Casey
E. Wright
April 23, 2025
I would like to extend my sincere condolences to the family and friends of Mr. Gene Hackman. He was quite an extraordinary actor who graced the big screen with the ability to adapt his character to whatever role he played and made it so convincing that you couldn't envision anyone else playing the part. "The French Connection," "Superman", "Enemy of the State," and "The Birdcage" are just a few of the many movies he starred in that will be a part of cinema history for all eternity.
Please remember that God is close to the broken hearted and there is never a tear drop that he doesn't see, there is never a moment that he doesn't care and never a time when he won't hear your prayers. Stand firm and stand strong as you continue on the journey of life.
Respectfully,
Jo Anne Nash
April 23, 2025
God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Barbara Arguello
April 22, 2025
My condolences to the family lots an lots of hugs an prayers Barbara Arguello.
Pamela Harvey
April 21, 2025
One of Hollywood's greatest actors. No doubt a dying breed when it comes to actual talent and range. I first saw Gene in The French Connection. Loved him in "Hoosiers and The Royal Tenenbaums. He was natural actor and did not demean himself by believing in the Hollywood hype. Rest in Power
John Svida
April 15, 2025
Gene Hackman, You will be Sadly missed, Thank You for Entertaining us with your amazing talent, you will never be forgotten.
Blake Fackrell
April 15, 2025
I have always enjoyed his movie's and I am searching for more I think that he is a great man all though the media was messing around with his history. With warm thoughts Blake. ..
Gail Cromie
April 10, 2025
For a beautiful man. Rest in Peace Gene Hackman xxxx
Gail Cromie
April 10, 2025
Goodbye Gene Hackman.
Beautiful soul. Xxxxx
Cindi H
April 8, 2025
Wishing the family love and support at this difficult time for you. I have had two family members I cherished pass away alone and never found out why. Sometimes it's more merciful to not know. I pray you get comfort from the memories you have and the wonderful films you can still see Mr. Hackman in. So very sorry for your loss.
RB
April 6, 2025
One of the best in the business. The list of movies would go on and on, Each and every one of them great in its own right.
Sincerest condolences to the Hackman family. May God be with you all.
Angie Rodriguez-Graham
March 30, 2025
My heartfelt condolences to the Hackman family. Please know that Mr. Hackman brought and continues to bring joy into many lives. He and his wife shall remain in my prayers.
Brenda Lovitt - Texas
March 29, 2025
Gods gracious blessing Mr Hackman, to one of the greatest actors in US History. Thank you for your military service to our Country during the Korean War. A legend, that master your craft and shared it with the world. Grateful you had the chance to enjoy your life with Besty in Sante Fe in your later years. RIP Sir, your memories will live on forever.
Norma Stephenson
March 29, 2025
I was in New York, the first week of June 2005. I met Gene Hackman at Good Morning America. I found him to be a very friendly outgoing man. He took time after the program to meet the audience. I have never forgotten that meeting. I am saddened by his passing. Condolences to his family and friends.
Eugene A Buckley Jr
March 29, 2025
The love of friends and family carry you through your grief.
Lois Faye Sterling
March 26, 2025
He was a great actress,I will always enjoy he movies he played in.My heart goes out to the family and his fans
Kevin Slinker
March 22, 2025
My condolences to the Hackman family. Even though I never knew Mr. Hackman, he along with Christopher Reeves made my childhood one of the best. May his legacy live on not just in movies but more so in his family who knew him more than human being on the planet. The Hackman family is in my prayers.
Lisa Connor
March 21, 2025
My most sincere condolences to the Hackman family on the loss of their beloved father Gene Hackman. May he rest in peace.
Art Gonzalez
March 11, 2025
From one Marine to another , Semper Fi to you sir.
Art Gonzalez
March 11, 2025
You will be missed gene , i loved watching your movies and how you embraced every role. And to all your family , i send my condolences.
Sonia Villegas
March 11, 2025
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always. You will always be remembered as a Great Man and Actor. You are at Eternal Peace. Love you Gene..
Michelle Stockler
March 11, 2025
My deepest sympathy to the family of this talented man. It was always a joy to me, when I saw him in a movie
Mark Stephen Coppola
March 9, 2025
May you rest in peace.
Jodie Mosley
March 8, 2025
legend. god bless. you. rip. i. loved. all of. your. movies. to be. absent from. the. body. is. to be. present. with the lord may. all of. good. things. speak fr. you. in. gods. care
Phillip Wayne Fleming
March 8, 2025
He was a wonderful actor and a very good person.
Maude Haworth
March 8, 2025
RIP Gene Hackman, my favourite actor. The Greatest Actor of all time.
J. N a fan
March 8, 2025
My Condolences to Mr Hackman and his wife's family. It's sad to hear the news of such a fine actor sad end and his dear wife.
His memory shall live on in over 80 films for all who admired his great talent.
Theresa Littrell
March 7, 2025
May you RIP, Gene Hackman, you entertained me for years with your wonderful acting career!
Robert Williams
March 7, 2025
My sincerest condolences to the Hackmans' families who lost these two wonderful people. May their memory be a blessing.
Mary OKane
March 7, 2025
Gene was a top notch actor enjoying his movies. A fine, humble person by far. Rest in peace dear Mr. Hackman and your beloved wife. You will be missed.
MARTIN SPRING
March 7, 2025
WE THANK U FOR YOUR DEVOTED SERVICE RIP ALONG WITH OUR COMPLETE SYMPATHY VFW POST # 201 AUX. CHAPLAIN MARTIN SPRING DIST. # 2 WATERBURY, CT.
Adrienne Radovich Becker
March 7, 2025
March 7th 2025 My prayers & thoughts to the entire Family Members during this sad time & my late Uncle by the Name of Jack Haley Jr knew Gene & His Wife for a very very long time. From Adrienne Radovich Becker the Granddaughter of Flo and Jack Haley Sr my Grandfather Jack Haley Sr was the Tinman from the Movie The Wizard Of Oz and other Movies as well
Gladys deje
March 6, 2025
Rest in peace. Thank you for your movies, and legacy
Rebecca Turner
March 6, 2025
He was so talented and funny as Harold in young Frankenstein and lex in Superman . My heart breaks love and prayers to the family his passing is really Unbearable what a gifted man he was
Porter
March 5, 2025
Loved you in Superman R.i.p
Mitzi Moore
March 5, 2025
Shocking news of his passing along with wife and dog. I hope we find out what really happened to them all, very tragic. He was truly a "STAR" and his wife was also very talented too! May God be with their family and dear friends at this sad time and just know you all are in my prayers...Mitzi Moore, Custer SD
Millard Thompson
March 5, 2025
my condolence to his family rest in peace
RB
March 5, 2025
My favorite actor, it was always a great performance in any of the many roles he played in. He had an incredibly long and successful career, truly an accomplishment. My heart goes out to his family, his children and the family of his wife Betsy. May God be with you all to help you through this very difficult time.
Kenneth Wayne Gentry
March 4, 2025
I´m sad to hear of Mr Gene´s passing, as well as his wonderful wife who was a caring and loving person who cared for Mr Gene´s health as well as his over all well being! I really enjoyed his movies and joined in on several of his appearances on the late night talk show! His movies were so very involved in his character that he made it look and feel so real. I was sad to hear when he announced his retirement and there would be no new movies! But he leaves a legacy that will live on for generations! Condolences to his wonderful daughters and family! Good bye my old friend, fair winds and following sea´s! Respectfully Junebug, Ky., 42101
Chip Fitts
March 4, 2025
HE WAS A VERY TALENTED AND RESPECTED ACTOR. HIS PASSING IS TRAGIC AND UNSETTLING. R,I.P.
Ruth
March 4, 2025
God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Joshua adam hill of Phoenix Arizona
March 3, 2025
To the hackman family I'm so sorry for your loss you all were so lucky to have the greatest dad and friend his movies got me thru some very hard times in my life I didn't no him personally but I just think he was the greatest guy and actor and we all were blessed to have witnessed such talent I will watch his movies till the day I pass go with God my friend love and prayers to the family especially his daughter
faith c.tobin/brad j/herscot
March 3, 2025
Dear Hackman Family my condolences's to the family.he'll surely be missed/may he rest in peace.best faith
James and Mary Lamb
March 3, 2025
Our sympathy and prayers to the families of Gene and Betsy. We lived in Santa Fe, and remember meeting Gene and Betsy on a Sunday afternoon at Mervyns. Both Gene and my husband chit chating while patiently waiting for Betsy and I to finish shopping. They were both the most personable, down to earth and sweetest couple ever. Rest in peace.
James and Mary Lamb
Char Riley
March 3, 2025
Oh what a Legend we have Lost!! you Truly were the Best of the Best, and what a Life you got to Live 95 years old, it´s sad for whatever reason you died but I can´t imagine two people dying Naturally in the same House, Gene Hackman you are in a better Place than We Are, Walking the streets of Gold with Your Beautiful Wife, just know you were Loved By Many and will be Missed Forever You, Your Family And Friends Will be in My Thoughts And Prayers
R.I.P. GENE HACKMAN
Art Gonzalez
March 3, 2025
To the Hackman family , i send my condolences to you all during this difficult time. To his nephew Tim , who i had the pleasure of serving in the Marine Corps with , sorry for your loss brother
Billy Rhodes
March 3, 2025
What a wonderful person Gene was. I feel as though he was a close friend. Really disturbing to learn of his death. From Young Frankenstein to his latest movie, he was superb. Nobody can replace Gene Hackman!!!
Heidi Dietrich
March 2, 2025
To the Hackman Family, you have my deepest condolences on the loss of your father. I lost my mother in 2007 and I know how painful the loss of a parent can be. I'll be praying for you in the days to come.
Thomas Berbas
March 2, 2025
I was deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Gene Hackman. An extraordinary talent whose memorable performances defined generations of cinema, Gene captivated audiences with his authenticity, depth, and remarkable versatility. His enduring contributions have left an indelible mark on film history, and he will be greatly missed by colleagues, fans, and cinema lovers worldwide. My heartfelt condolences go out to his family, friends, and all those who cherished his work. May his legacy continue to inspire and entertain us for years to come.
Sincerely,
Thomas Berbas
Lisa Weiner
March 2, 2025
To Gene Hackman.
You were a very talented actor. My prayers are with your and friends. Lisa Weiner
Laura Rowland
March 2, 2025
Was so sorry to hear of this.He was a wonderful actor and I enjoyed so many of his movies. Prayers for his children.
Dave Mann
March 2, 2025
To The Hackman Family:
I offer my heartfelt condolences of the loss of Gene and his wife Betsy. I had the utmost respect for Gene's talents as an actor and the volume of outstanding performances he gave in film. Most of all, I will remember his role as Norman Dale in "Hoosiers", which I never get tired of watching. What a brilliant talent!
Elizabeth Bell
March 1, 2025
RIP Gene
BARBARA HAY
March 1, 2025
My sincere condolences to your family! You were a wonderful actor. My first movie i saw with you in it was the
French Connection and I was hooked! Saw everyone of your movies after that. Thank you for your wonderful acting. You were in a class all by yourself. You will be missed Mr. Hackman.
Alma
March 1, 2025
Also I would like to wish my deepest sympathy for both of their families at this heartbreaking and shocking time. We have lost one of greats of Hollywood and film but you have lost a father grandpa someone you love dearly . In time may you find peace .
Alma
March 1, 2025
A most magnificent actor who was one of the best that I've ever seen I have a few of his films and always watched if they came on TV.there is nobody and will never be anyone quite like him he was a one off very charismatic and believable with a very likeable face quite a good looking fella .liked him for years his films are very good.and I am horrified that both gen and his wife and poor pet dog have been found dead I hope they rest in peace and they will be missed god bless you gene and your wife
Maxine
March 1, 2025
You are up there with the greatest people of Hollywood. I loved your movies from a young age. Your Hollywood was the elegant one rest in peace.
Rose Wells
March 1, 2025
My condolences to your family. Gene fulfilled his passion to be an actor. He will be remembered as a great actor. May his legacy bring you comfort. May God be with your family.
Grady Morris Youngblood
March 1, 2025
Jennifer
February 28, 2025
Celebrating the life of a talented actor, Gene Hackman as his Soul still lives on as his internal eternally Body has departed and returned back home to HEAVEN. Deepest Sympathy, Condolences To The Gene Hackman Family, Friend´s, Movie Industry & Fans.
We will truly be missed, yet never be forgotten, thank you. for making us laugh with the movies that you made, his legacy will still live on with the movies he did. I just saw him in the Movie last night THE BRIDECAGES Gene Hackman with Robin Williams, Dianne Wiest, I have the DVD, I saw movie so many times, I don´t get tired of watching it. May the coming days we get easier you will be surrounded by Family, Friends with the memories to tell a stories with each picture, along with laughter, eternal sorrow. We all know that is in good place now, he is reunited with his Wife, looking down on you all.
Jennifer
February 28, 2025
Jennifer
February 28, 2025
RIP Drag Woman Kevin Keeley
Debbie Manning
February 28, 2025
Deepest condolences for your loss. Gene is from our hometown of Danville, Illinois. Gene was a great actor I think I watched every movie he had
MW
February 28, 2025
To the Hackman Family go our deepest sympathies and prayers. Your Father /Grandfather touched so many lives with his art, smile, humor, intellect and personality. The world was a better place with Mr. Hackman in it. In a world where screen has lost so much "art" and seems to be a race to the bottom actors such as Mr. Hackman reminded us of the craft and the study of it, the beautiful poignancy and balance of art through life, and life through art.
My life has been a little less ordinary and when I watched his work felt the ability to pick up and continue when much seemed lost. Whether it be a rousing speech from Hoosiers or a no nonsense attitude from The French Connection he had a way of connecting, fueling and driving one that quite honestly to me was needed. I grew up alone a lot and enjoyed quiet and stable environments only after I fought to get them. I never had those. I have worked and lived where I could and where many couldn´t at all.In his work was a bit of the father I never had and the street tough friend who stuck up for you after a rough one- all wrapped up with a wise educated piece of advice.
I haven´t seen a Hollywood movie in years for many reasons but now that Mr. Hackman is gone I don´t plan on watching anything anymore.
Families can be up and down and many can complicated. I do not pretend to know your feelings at this time yet I´d like to say,
I may, we all may , not have known him the way you his family did but for a small amount of time, a fleeting time , we were made to feel that we did- and it was in those times that the world and ourselves became a better place because of it .
Thank you Mr. Hackman.
My thoughts and prayers to the family.
Jennifer
February 28, 2025
Deepest sympathy to the family an friends. Praying for answers I say that (Tears are Prayers ). Memories are a blessing remember them often . Jennifer Norred, Alabama a fan of his movies
Carolyn Mitchell
February 28, 2025
Deepest sympathy for Gene's family. I didn't know him personally but loved his movies.
A great actor, a legend. RIP Gene
Jenee Emlyn
February 28, 2025
I am so sorry about the loss of Gene. I loved his acting roles & the family, as well as friends and fans have my deepest condolences and I pray that all will be surrounded continuously with love and support. As you go through this difficult time, may Almighty God give you "everlasting comfort" (2 Thess. 2:16).
Matthew J. McGuire
February 28, 2025
Deepest condolences.
Diana Patton
February 28, 2025
Gene Hackman was a special actor. Of all of his movies, Hoosier was my favorite movie. My condolences and prayers to the family. The Lord Is My Shepherd. Psalm 23.
Carolyn Wynn
February 28, 2025
He was a very diverse actor who became the character portrayed. His love for the craft was apparent. I love so many of his movies and he helped his co-stars shine. And I loved his graceful walk!! So cool!! Condolences to the family for your loss. Thanks for sharing him with the WORLD!!
Beau Dare
February 28, 2025
As an American actor/ screenwriter, I salute Gene Hackman. Thoughtful, playful and simply the best there is. Hollywood lost one of the great character actors of all time. A million best wishes, Gene, Beau Dare
RH
February 28, 2025
To the family and friends, my deepest condolences for your loss. May the God of tender mercy and ALL comfort, comfort you during this time.
Pieter Rossouw
February 27, 2025
Gene Hackman the Poseidon adventure in 1972 with in a group if you rescued on the Poseidon adventure, he´s playing like Luther, the Superman, the movie, the bad guys, and Lex Luther genie´s plants are all about their worst day. I miss you, GENE to honor God to. bless you Gods and nice.
Mitchell Williams
February 27, 2025
"I'm so sorry for your loss. My deepest sympathy"
Rose Connolly
February 27, 2025
Gene ..from a fellow actor..enjoyed your on screen performances, so sorry
to hear of your passing but I know you're cradled in Gods safe hands.
God Bless you and your family Love, Rose and Peaches Connolly
T Brooks
February 27, 2025
Wow, I was literally watching the original Superman this past weekend and reflecting on the fact that Gene Hackman was the last surviving major cast member. So sorry to hear about his unexpected passing. What a wonderful assortment of great movie performances he has left us with. Sending deepest thoughts and sympathy to he and his wife's family.
Dawn Childers
February 27, 2025
Rest in peace
Donna James
February 27, 2025
In loving memory of a wonderful person. Gene was a fantastic actor that I remember in many of his films he left us. Truly a Hollywood Icon-We will love you and miss you always. (Isaiah 57:1-2, John 3:16) Rest in Peace, Gene!
Jody Shawn Brachman
February 27, 2025
I'm good u I was writing to you to give my condolences to you and your family etc rip. I loved his movies etc. He seemed like a nice guy. I will miss him so. No rush take care I will.also.miss his wife and dog. Bye
Randy Clarke
February 27, 2025
He was my favorite actor. I live in Santa Fe too and hoped I would see him about town but never did. R.I.P sir.
Adrienne
February 27, 2025
Family Members of the Gene Hackman sending lots & lots of prayers & thoughts to everyone during Gene know my Closest Friend & Family Member & Uncle Jack Haley Jr very well & I went to Beverly Hills High School & Chris His Son was in 1 of my Classes & I am the Granddaughter of Flo and Jack Haley Sr my Grandfather Jack Haley Sr was the Tinman from the Movie The Wizard Of Oz and other Movies as well I would like to send something my cellphone number is 1310 560 1928 & my Email address is [email protected] & please please let me know when you get this message & sending lots and lots of prayers and thoughts
Madonna Tomlin Borromeo
February 27, 2025
Here with my beloved brother who is gone too.
Diana Patton
February 27, 2025
God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Terry Brewer
February 27, 2025
He was one of my favorite actors.
frank bratsa campbell
February 27, 2025
always , a very versatile actor / i especially liked him in loredo and some of those early secret agent/detective telvision shows wild wild west not the obvious festus out the side and artimus holidays
Tony Spirito
February 27, 2025
September wolfe
February 27, 2025
LEGEND. Wonderful, talented, creative, beautiful soul. Rest in peace.
Michael
February 27, 2025
Our Condolences to Family Friend's and Fans Michael Crosswhite and Jon Atkinson
Showing 1 - 94 of 94 results
Make a Donation
in Gene Hackman's name
How to support Gene's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Gene Hackman's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more