Two-Time Oscar Winner Gene Hackman Dies at 95

Gene Hackman, the veteran actor whose searing performances in films like ‘The French Connection’ and “Unforgiven” won him two Oscars, has died at age 95 at his home in New Mexico. Hackman, who was voted “least likely to succeed” in Hollywood, went on to have a legendary career spanning over half a century.

Hackman is perhaps most famous for his depiction of the tough New York City detective Jimmy “Popeye” Doyle in ‘The French Connection’ (1971), a performance that earned him his first Academy Award. He won a second Oscar in 1992 for his role as the sadistic sheriff “Little Bill” Daggett in “Unforgiven”. Hackman earned a total of five Oscar nominations throughout his career and appeared in over 80 films.

Born in Illinois during the Great Depression, Hackman grew up with a difficult childhood, his parents divorcing and his mother perishing in a blaze. He then joined the Marines at age 16 and used his own inner demons to fuel his acting career.

Not conventionally handsome, Hackman made a name for himself with his tough, intelligent performances. A late beginner in the acting profession following training at the Pasadena Playhouse, his breakthrough role came in 1967 with the film “Bonnie and Clyde”. In 2008, he retired from acting to live more peacefully in Santa Fe with his second wife.

Gene Hackman will be remembered for his immense talent and versatility that made him a darling in the hearts of many in Hollywood.