Fans expressed disappointment when Gene Hackman was not included in the In Memoriam segment at the 2025 Emmy Awards. The Hollywood icon passed away at 95 in February after battling Alzheimer’s disease. Despite his significant contributions to television and entertainment, Hackman was notably absent from the tribute that honored recently deceased figures like Vince Gill, Lainey Wilson, Ozzy Osbourne, and David Lynch.
Viewers took to Twitter to voice their confusion and outrage over Hackman’s exclusion, along with other notable stars like Jonathan Joss, Connie Francis, and Val Kilmer. While missing from the broadcast tribute, Hackman is listed on the Emmy’s website alongside other fallen actors such as Polly Holliday and Graham Greene.
Hackman’s illustrious career spanned decades and included memorable roles in TV series like I Spy. He was a recipient of multiple awards, including two BAFTAs and three Golden Globe Awards. Notably, he won a Golden Globe for Best Actor in a Motion Picture Musical or Comedy for his performance in The Royal Tenenbaums in 2002.
The esteemed actor, originally from San Bernardino, California, starred in iconic films like Bonnie and Clyde (1967) and The French Connection (1971). Regarded as one of the finest actors of his time, Hackman’s legacy endures despite his untimely passing.
Tragically, Hackman and his wife, classical pianist Betsy Arakawa, were discovered deceased in their Santa Fe residence in a distressing manner. Arakawa succumbed to Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS) in their bathroom shortly before Hackman’s demise. Postmortem reports revealed additional medical complications in Arakawa, including fluid buildup in her chest and cardiovascular issues.
Arakawa tested negative for COVID-19 and other common illnesses, ruling out foul play or substance abuse. The investigation indicated that she had consumed caffeine but had no alcohol or drugs in her system. Carbon monoxide levels were within normal limits, shedding light on the tragic circumstances surrounding their deaths.