Nearly five months after the passing of iconic actor Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, their estates are facing unexpected financial complications, specifically over $100,000 in credit card debt.
Court documents reveal that Citibank has filed a claim against Hackman’s estate for $98,345 related to an unpaid Mastercard balance. Meanwhile, Arakawa’s estate has been served with a separate claim from Bank of America for $4,329. Combined, the total reaches $102,675.While Hackman’s estate is valued at an estimated $80 million, these unresolved debts have attracted attention as legal proceedings continue.
The couple, who were found deceased in their New Mexico residence on February 26, 2025, left behind a Southwestern-style ranch worth between $3.8 million and $5 million. The property, situated on six acres and within a gated Hyde Park community, features views of the Rocky Mountains. A real estate agent from Coldwell Banker commented. “The home is big, stylish, and has great bones, so there will be interest. Even though two people passed away in the house, there will still be plenty of offers.”
Hackman’s will was reportedly last updated in 2005, naming Arakawa as the successor trustee. However, with her passing, the status of the estate now appears legally unclear. His three adult children, Christopher Allen, Elizabeth Jean, and Leslie Anne, were not mentioned in the original will.
“He was loved and admired by millions around the world for his brilliant acting career, but to us, he was always just Dad and Grandpa. We will miss him sorely and are devastated by the loss,” the family statement read.
© Getty ImagesAuthorities believe Arakawa, 65, died first on February 11 from hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, a rare virus typically transmitted through rodents. Hackman, 95, followed on February 18, with hypertensive atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease listed as his primary cause of death. Alzheimer’s disease was also noted as a contributing factor.
A Santa Fe detective detailed; “Deputies observed a healthy dog running loose on the property, another healthy dog near the deceased female, a deceased dog laying 10-15 feet from the deceased female in a closet of the bathroom, the heater being moved, the pill bottle being opened and pills scattered next to the female, the male decedent being located in a separate room of the residence, and no obvious signs of a gas leak.”
The medical examiner noted Arakawa’s body was in a “state of decomposition with bloating in her face and mummification in her hands and feet.” Newly released records from the Santa Fe County Sheriff’s Office also revealed a glimpse into Arakawa’s final days. Between February 8 and 12, her computer activity showed searches related to COVID-19, flu symptoms, and breathing techniques. She had emailed a masseuse to cancel an appointment, explaining Hackman was experiencing flu-like symptoms.
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