Prince William pays tribute to 'true genius of film' Gene Hackman after actor and his wife found dead
The Oscar-winning actor was found dead alongside his wife and their dogToday, Prince William has paid tribute to Oscar winner Gene Hackman and his wife after the couple were found dead.
Gene, 95, classical pianist Betsy Arakawa, in her early 60s, and their pet dog were all found dead in different rooms of their home in the US state of New Mexico.
According to police, Gene was found dead on Wednesday in a mudroom near the kitchen of the house. Meanwhile, Betsy’s body was discovered in a bathroom.
Gene Hackman and wife found dead at their home
The county sheriff’s office has said there was no sign that any of them had been shot or had other types of wounds.
The Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office told Sky News: “We do not believe foul play was a factor in their deaths, however exact cause of death has not been determined at this time.”
Hackman was a true genius of film who brought each and every character to life with power, authenticity and star quality.
Meanwhile, a spokesperson said deputies responded to a welfare check request on Wednesday around 1.45pm local time. Gene, Betsy and their dog were found dead at the scene.
An arrest warrant has since revealed Betsy was found decomposed with bloating on her face, and mummification in her hands and feet. Pills were also strewn in their bathroom. Police have said the actor was found to have same decomposition signs as his wife.
Tributes have poured in online for the couple following the tragedy.
Prince William pays tribute to ‘true genius of film’ Gene Hackman
On Thursday (February 27), the Prince of Wales issued a statement via X.
It read: “So sad to hear the news of the death of Gene Hackman and his wife Betsy.
“Hackman was a true genius of film who brought each and every character to life with power, authenticity and star quality. W.”
Many fans have also paid tribute to The French Connection actor. One fan said: “Such sad news to learn of his and his wife’s passing this morning. My condolences to his family, friends and fans.”
Another wrote in reply to William’s message: “Completely heartbreaking. The loss of him, his wife, and his dog.”
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Princess Eugenie suffers sad loss of Hollywood friend Michelle Trachtenberg
Hollywood was hit with another loss this week following the death of Gossip Girl star Michelle Trachtenberg.
Michelle was also good friends with Princess Eugenie, who hasn’t yet spoken out on the news.
Michelle was found unresponsive at her apartment in New York. She was pronounced dead at the scene by paramedics. However, her death is not being treated as suspicious.
“It is with great sadness to confirm that Michelle Trachtenberg has passed away. The family requests privacy for their loss,” her family said in a statement.
Michelle shared a close bond with Eugenie after the princess moved to New York in 2013. In an Instagram post from 2020, Michelle described Eugenie as “one of the most dearest, kindest, most genuine friends I have ever had in my life”.
Leave your tributes to Gene, Betsy and Michelle on our Facebook page @RoyalInsiderOfficial.
