The details of Gene Hackman’s will have been revealed, leaving questions about who will inherit his estimated $80 million fortune. The legendary actor, who suffered from Alzheimer’s disease, had not updated his will since June 2005, according to reports.
Hackman’s will named his wife, Betsy Arakawa, as the primary beneficiary. However, since Arakawa died a week before him, the estate’s fate remains uncertain. The couple, who lived a private life in Santa Fe, were found dead in their home last month.
Potential Legal Battle Looms
With Arakawa gone, Hackman’s fortune is likely to pass to his three children, Christopher, Leslie, and Elizabeth, whom he shared with his late ex-wife, Faye Maltese. However, there is no confirmation that they were listed in his legal documents.
Reports indicate that Christopher has already hired a high-powered attorney, suggesting a possible dispute over the inheritance. Legal experts predict that if Hackman’s children were not explicitly named, the estate could face a complicated probate process.
Meanwhile, Arakawa’s assets were placed in a trust that will settle medical debts before being donated to various charities. Her will included a provision stating that if she and Hackman died within 90 days of each other, their deaths would be considered simultaneous. This clause could significantly impact the distribution of Hackman’s wealth.
Tragic End to a Hollywood Legend
Hackman, a two-time Oscar winner best known for The French Connection and Unforgiven, died at 95 from heart disease, with Alzheimer’s as a contributing factor. His body was discovered near his kitchen on Feb. 26, though records indicate he likely passed on Feb. 18.
Arakawa, 65, died a week earlier from hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, a rare disease caused by exposure to rodent droppings. Her body showed signs of mummification, suggesting she had been deceased for several days before being found.
Friends of the couple described their relationship as deeply devoted, with Arakawa taking care of Hackman as his health declined. A longtime friend shared that Hackman might not have lived as long without her care.
Attorney Julia Peters has been appointed executor of both wills. She has already taken steps to block the public release of investigative reports, autopsy details, and body-camera footage from the scene.
With legal questions still unanswered, Hackman’s fortune remains in limbo. His children may need to fight in court to claim what they believe is rightfully theirs.
Jaja has a degree in journalism and took classes in international law and business communication. Jaja’s career spans roles at prominent international media outlets, including Business Times and Brigada. As a news editor, she covered a wide range of beats, including business, economy, cryptocurrency, and personal finance. Additionally, she has successfully managed teams of writers producing content on gaming, technology, and entertainment.
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