Gene Hackman’s Will Revealed Amid Speculation Over $80 Million Fortune
The wills of Hollywood legend Gene Hackman and his wife Betsy Arakawa have been revealed, shedding light on the distribution of his $80 million fortune just a month after their tragic deaths.
Hackman’s Fortune Left to Betsy—Children Possibly Excluded
The Oscar-winning actor, who passed away at 95, left his estate to his wife Betsy, 65, naming her as the successor trustee of his trust. However, it remains unclear whether his three children—Christopher Allen (65), Leslie Anne (58), and Elizabeth Jean (62)—from his previous marriage to Faye Maltese received anything.
The potential omission of his children, with whom he was once estranged, has raised speculation about a legal battle over his estate. A legal expert told DailyMail.com:
“If he had died first and Betsy survived, it would’ve been World War III. His kids would’ve probably gone crazy.”
Betsy’s Will Allocates Assets to Charity
In contrast, Betsy’s will designates her assets to a charitable trust to settle medical debts and benefit organizations. Since she died before Hackman, the timing of their deaths may impact how the estate is ultimately divided.
Legal Moves Suggest Possible Conflict
Gene Hackman had initially created the GeBe Revocable Trust, but in 1994, he amended it, making Betsy the successor trustee. Later, another trust, the Avalon Trust, replaced it as the final successor trustee.
Gene’s son, Chris Hackman, has already hired prominent California trust attorney Andrew M. Katzenstein, a move experts believe signals potential legal action. A source noted:
“By hiring Katzenstein, it shows Chris is definitely trying to protect his interests. The fact that he got a high-powered lawyer indicates that something is going on. The absence of representation for the daughters suggests possible internal conflict.”
Gene Hackman’s Health and Family Struggles
Hackman, who suffered from Alzheimer’s, signed his last will on June 7, 2005. It remains unknown when he was formally diagnosed.
His dedication to Hollywood created a rift in his family, leading to estrangement from his children, particularly his son, Christopher. He openly admitted that his success kept him away from his family during their formative years.
Over time, his daughters Leslie and Elizabeth remained somewhat in touch, occasionally accompanying him to events. However, it wasn’t until his marriage to Betsy in 1991 that efforts were made to heal family wounds.
The Mysterious Deaths of Gene and Betsy Hackman
The Santa Fe Sheriff’s Office released findings from its investigation into the couple’s curious deaths.
• Betsy Arakawa likely died around February 11 from hantavirus, a rare virus spread by mice droppings.
• Gene Hackman is believed to have died on February 18 from heart disease, living seven days after his wife’s passing.
Their bodies were found in separate rooms on February 26 by a caretaker at their Santa Fe home. Authorities are still reviewing cell phone records and conducting a necropsy on their deceased dog to rule out any remaining uncertainties.
Inheritance and Legal Implications
New Mexico law states that if a couple dies within 120 hours (5 days) of each other, their deaths are classified as simultaneous, which can affect inheritance laws. However, since Hackman survived seven days longer than Betsy, those provisions do not apply.
Experts suggest this timing could significantly impact the distribution of their estate. As one legal expert noted:
“In many states, there’s a five-day rule to determine survivorship in estate law. Since Gene outlived Betsy by a week, his estate might be divided differently than expected.”
What Happens Next?
There are several unknown factors that could affect how the estate is settled, including:
• Whether Hackman and Betsy had any prenuptial or postnuptial agreements.
• The contents of the Avalon Trust, which remains undisclosed.
• Potential legal claims from Hackman’s children.
Under New Mexico law, family members have up to three years to file a probate case, meaning legal battles over the estate could unfold in the coming months or even years.
A Hollywood Legacy and a Family Left in Uncertainty
Hackman, known for iconic roles in The French Connection, Unforgiven, and The Royal Tenenbaums, lived a private life in his final years. His daughters and granddaughter Annie released a statement following his passing, saying:
“He was loved and admired by millions for his brilliant acting career, but to us, he was always just Dad and Grandpa.”
While the official cause of death for both Hackman and Arakawa has been determined, authorities insist the case remains open until all loose ends are tied up. With millions at stake, the coming months may see further legal disputes and revelations.
