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Oscar-winning actor Gene Hackman, wife found dead in US — newspaper

Police say that there was no immediate indication of foul play

NEW YORK, February 27. /TASS/. Two-time Academy Award winner American actor Gene Hackman and his wife, classical pianist Betsy Arakawa, have been found deceased in their home in New Mexico, the Santa Fe New Mexican newspaper reported, citing the police.

Santa Fe County Sheriff Adan Mendoza confirmed the passing of the actor and his wife. According to him, the two died shortly after midnight local time on Thursday (after 7:00 a.m. GMT). Police say that there was no immediate indication of foul play. The couple’s dog was also found dead.

Hackman began his acting career in the 1960s. He started to gain popularity after portraying the older brother of a criminal in Bonnie and Clyde, 1967, which brought him critical acclaim and an Oscar nomination. His work in the drama I Never Sang for My Father (1970) was also a success, and Hackman was nominated for an Oscar once again. The actor became a star in 1971, when The French Connection action movie hit the screens, with Hackman playing the lead. He won an Oscar for Best Actor, as well as Golden Globe and BAFTA awards. The movies Unforgiven (1992) and Enemy of the State (1998) are also among the landmarks of the actor’s career.

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