A legendary Hollywood actor's final days were marked by isolation and physical decline in his sprawling New Mexico estate.

According to Fox News, Gene Hackman had become increasingly reclusive and was "slowing down" in the years leading up to his mysterious death alongside his wife Betsy Arakawa and their dog at their Santa Fe home.

Close friends of the 95-year-old Oscar winner paint a picture of a once-active man who gradually withdrew from public life, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic.

The couple's bodies were discovered last Wednesday, with authorities noting they had been deceased for several days before being found.

Physical decline and isolation after pandemic

Stuart Ashman, a longtime friend of Hackman, revealed the actor's lifestyle changed dramatically in recent years.

The former Marine, known for maintaining an impressive level of fitness well into his 90s, began limiting his social interactions to protect his health during the pandemic.

Daniel and Barbara Lenihan, along with their son Aaron, observed significant changes in Hackman's condition during his final months. They noted he had become "essentially kind of home-bound" and stopped his regular bicycle rides through the neighborhood.

The Lenihan family shared that Arakawa remained dedicated to maintaining her husband's well-being until the end. She encouraged him to stay engaged through daily puzzles and online yoga sessions, demonstrating her commitment to preserving his quality of life.

Friends recall vibrant social connections

During happier times, Hackman maintained strong connections within the Santa Fe community. Ashman remembered their shared interests in Pilates, military service, and conversations about politics and Cuba.

The actor's generosity extended beyond personal friendships into local business ventures. According to Ashman, Hackman often invested in local businesses, not for profit, but to support community members he believed in.

Their friendship included regular exchanges of farm-fresh eggs for artwork, resulting in a cherished painting that Ashman now considers a precious memento of their relationship.

Active lifestyle and fitness dedication

Before his decline, Hackman maintained an impressive exercise regimen that belied his advanced age. Standing over 6 feet 2 inches tall, the former Marine attended Pilates classes three times weekly.

Ashman shared the actor's dedication to cycling, describing how Hackman would drive 70 miles to Albuquerque to ride on paved trails along the river. This commitment to physical fitness remained a defining aspect of his lifestyle well into his later years.

The actor's regular workout routine and outdoor activities demonstrate his determination to maintain his health and vitality despite his advancing age.

Final months marked by declining health

The Lenihan family observed concerning changes in Hackman's condition during his last months. As shared by Stuart Ashman:

Obviously, he was 95, so he was slowing down. And after COVID, he was more reclusive protecting his immune system and everything else.

The couple's relationship remained strong throughout these challenges. Aaron Lenihan noted:

They seemed like real life partners, really, really close to each other, and they were both incredibly kind. And they were reserved, but they were real [and] a lot of fun.

Looking back at Hollywood legend's final chapter

Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa's unexpected deaths have left their community searching for answers. Their bodies were discovered in their Santa Fe home, where they had lived a private life away from Hollywood's spotlight.

The investigation into their deaths continues as authorities work to determine the cause. The couple's passing marks the end of a chapter for Hollywood history and the Santa Fe community, where Hackman had become a respected and generous member despite his preference for privacy in his final years.