Who Is Gene Hackman? Age, Biography, and Wiki
Born on January 30, 1930, Gene Hackman, the iconic American actor, has graced the screen with his remarkable talent for decades. As of 2025, he is 95 years old. Known for his compelling performances in films such as The French Connection, Unforgiven, and The Conversation, Hackman's career has exemplified the art of acting. He has garnered multiple awards, including two Academy Awards, and is celebrated for both his versatility and intensity.
Occupation | Voice Actors |
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Date of Birth | January 30, 1930 |
Age | 95 Years |
Birth Place | San Bernardino, California, U.S. |
Horoscope | Aquarius |
Country | Mexico |
Popularity
Gene Hackman's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Gene Hackman stands at an impressive height of 6 feet 2 inches (188 cm). Throughout his career, he maintained a healthy physique, keeping his weight around 200 pounds (90 kg). His striking presence on screen has often been highlighted by his distinguished features and powerful performances.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Gene Hackman has been married twice in his lifetime. He married his first wife, Faye Maltese, in 1956, and they had three children together before divorcing in 1986. He later tied the knot with Betsy Arakawa in 1991, and the couple has been together ever since. As of 2025, Hackman remains happily married, enjoying a quiet life away from the Hollywood spotlight. While there are rumors about personal relationships, Gene Hackman tends to keep his private life confidential, focusing instead on family and personal interests.
Eugene Allen Hackman (January 30, 1930 – c. February 18, 2025) was an American actor. Hackman made his credited film debut in the drama Lilith (1964).
He later won two Academy Awards, his first for Best Actor for his role as Jimmy "Popeye" Doyle in William Friedkin's action thriller The French Connection (1971) and his second for Best Supporting Actor for playing a sheriff in Clint Eastwood's Western Unforgiven (1992).
He was Oscar-nominated for playing Buck Barrow in the crime drama Bonnie and Clyde (1967), a college professor in the drama I Never Sang for My Father (1970), and an FBI agent in the historical drama Mississippi Burning (1988).
Net Worth and Salary
As one of Hollywood's most esteemed actors, Gene Hackman's net worth is estimated to be around $80 million in 2025. Throughout his illustrious career, he not only earned substantial salaries from his film roles but also made astute business investments. Hackman's earnings have allowed him to live a comfortable lifestyle while supporting philanthropic endeavors, including educational and cultural arts initiatives.
Career, Business, and Investments
Gene Hackman’s career spanned over six decades, during which he starred in numerous critically acclaimed films. After his retirement from acting in 2004, he pursued a career as a novelist, penning several books that have been well-received. His business acumen extends beyond the screen as he has invested in various real estate ventures and continues to contribute to experimental film projects. Hackman’s dedication to his craft and intelligent investments demonstrate his commitment to both his art and financial stability.
Hackman gained further fame for his portrayal of Lex Luthor in three of the Superman films from 1978 to 1987.
He also acted in The Poseidon Adventure (1972), Scarecrow (1973), The Conversation (1974), Night Moves (1975), A Bridge Too Far (1977), Under Fire (1983), Hoosiers (1986), The Firm (1993), Wyatt Earp (1994), Crimson Tide (1995), The Quick and the Dead (1995), Get Shorty (1995), The Birdcage (1996), Absolute Power (1997), Enemy of the State (1998),
The Royal Tenenbaums (2001), and Runaway Jury (2003).
Social Network
Though Gene Hackman is not particularly active on social media, he maintains a reputation that resonates with fans and film enthusiasts alike. His legacy is celebrated on platforms that discuss classic films and actors. Fans often share quotes and memorable moments from Hackman's extensive filmography, keeping his spirit alive in digital conversations.
To support himself between acting jobs, Hackman was working at a Howard Johnson's restaurant when he encountered an instructor from the Pasadena Playhouse, who said that his job proved that Hackman "wouldn't amount to anything." A Marine officer who saw him as a doorman said, "Hackman, you're a sorry son of a bitch." Rejection motivated Hackman, wh
o said: "It was more psychological warfare, because I wasn't going to let those fuckers get me down.
I insisted with myself that I would continue to do whatever it took to get a job. It was like me against them, and in some way, unfortunately, I still feel that way. But I think if you're really interested in acting there is a part of you that relishes the struggle.
It's a narcotic in the way that you are trained to do this work and nobody will let you do it, so you're a little bit nuts. You lie to people, you cheat, you do whatever it takes to get an audition, get a job."
Education
Gene Hackman attended the University of Illinois, where he began to cultivate his passion for acting. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps before fully committing to his artistic career. His education laid the groundwork for his impressive performances and later success in film and literature.
Hackman alternated between leading and supporting roles during the 1980s. He appeared opposite Barbra Streisand in All Night Long (1981) and supported Warren Beatty in Reds (1981). He played the lead in Eureka (1983) and a supporting role in Under Fire (1983).
Hackman provided the voice of God in Two of a Kind (1983) and starred in Uncommon Valor (1983), Misunderstood (1984), Twice in a Lifetime (1985), Target (1985) for Arthur Penn, and Power (1986). Between 1985 and 1988, he starred in nine films, making him the busiest actor, alongside Steve Guttenberg.
Hackman played a high school basketball coach in Hoosiers (1986), which a 2008 American Film Institute poll named the fourth-greatest sports film of all time.
After Superman IV: The Quest for Peace (1987), he also voiced Nuclear Man (who was portrayed by Mark Pillow) and was in No Way Out (1987), Split Decisions (1988), Bat*21 (1988), and Full Moon in Blue Water (1988).
Conclusion
Gene Hackman’s life and career are a testament to the enduring power of talent and dedication. At 95, he remains an inspiration to aspiring actors and filmmakers, showcasing that the journey of an artist is as significant as their accomplishments. With a wealth of experience and stories to share, Hackman continues to be a celebrated figure in the world of entertainment.