Gene Hackman’s Cause of Death Revealed as Heart and Kidney Failure Complicated by Hantavirus Infection

Gene Hackman, the two-time Academy Award-winning actor whose performances helped shape a generation of American cinema, died of heart and kidney failure complicated by a hantavirus infection, according to the final autopsy report released this week.

Mr. Hackman, who was 94, had lived a quiet and largely private life in New Mexico during his later years. The autopsy identified heart failure and kidney failure as the primary causes of death, with complications stemming from hantavirus, a rare infection usually contracted through contact with rodent droppings.

Medical authorities noted that “hantavirus can lead to severe respiratory issues and organ complications if not diagnosed and treated promptly.” It remains unknown precisely how Mr. Hackman contracted the virus, though experts emphasize its occurrence is uncommon in the general population.

Mr. Hackman's family expressed gratitude for the public's support. “We are grateful for the outpouring of support and ask for privacy during this time,” a statement from the family said. Friends and admirers across the entertainment industry quickly honored his legacy, describing him as a defining figure in modern acting.

“His talent and humanity touched so many, and his legacy will endure,” a representative for the family stated.

Throughout his retirement, Mr. Hackman remained largely out of the public eye, dedicating time to writing novels and enjoying a slower pace of life. Those close to him recalled that he was "content, peaceful, and proud of his life's work."

The news of his death triggered a wave of tributes from colleagues and fans, many of whom pointed to the profound impact of his work in films like The French Connection, Unforgiven, and The Royal Tenenbaums. Even long after his official retirement from acting in 2004, his performances continued to resonate with new generations of film lovers.

A Brief Biography

Gene Hackman was born on January 30, 1930, in San Bernardino, California. Rising from modest beginnings, he studied acting at the Pasadena Playhouse and later served in the United States Marine Corps. Hackman's breakthrough came with Bonnie and Clyde (1967), which led to a prolific career marked by versatility and emotional depth. He won Academy Awards for Best Actor in The French Connection (1971) and Best Supporting Actor in Unforgiven (1992), earning widespread acclaim for his portrayals of morally complex characters. In addition to his film work, Hackman co-authored several historical novels after retiring from acting. His enduring influence on American culture remains indisputable.