How Many Kids Does Gene Hackman Have? A Look Into His Family and Wealth!

Gene Hackman, the Hollywood legend known for iconic roles in films like The French Connection and Unforgiven, had three children with his first wife, Faye Maltese. Their children Christopher, Elizabeth, and Leslie are all adults now, with ages ranging from 58 to 65 years old. Hackman was married to Maltese from 1956 until their divorce in 1986. Despite his successful career, Hackman’s relationship with his children was reportedly strained, as his work often took him away from home for long periods, a challenge he openly discussed in interviews.

A Life Shrouded in Mystery

Hackman’s death in February 2025 shocked many. He passed away in his New Mexico home, along with his wife Betsy Arakawa, in a tragic incident that initially baffled authorities. Gene Hackman had been in declining health due to Alzheimer’s disease, and a necropsy confirmed that heart disease complicated by Alzheimer’s contributed to his death. Arakawa, who was 65, died of hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, a rare disease contracted through rodents. Their deaths left many questions unanswered, especially concerning their wills and estates.

The Estate of Gene Hackman

In March 2025, news emerged that Hackman’s estate, estimated to be worth around $80 million, was being handled through his will. However, to the surprise of many, Hackman’s children were notably absent from the will’s provisions. Reports suggest that everything was left to his wife, Betsy Arakawa, who, in turn, left her estate to Hackman. This has raised concerns and speculations, particularly considering the strained relationship between Hackman and his children.

Hackman’s Unconventional Relationship with His Children

Gene Hackman’s relationship with his children was complicated by the nature of his career. He often spoke about the sacrifices he made for his work, including long stretches away from his family. In an interview with The New York Times, Hackman admitted that his career created distance between him and his children. “You become very selfish as an actor,” he explained, acknowledging the strain his work put on his family life.

The Possibility of Contesting the Will

Hackman’s children have yet to publicly comment on their father’s estate. However, legal experts suggest that they may have grounds to contest the will. Tre Lovell, an attorney based in California, indicated that if Hackman’s will didn’t specifically name anyone other than his wife, the estate could automatically go to his children under intestate succession laws. The timing of Arakawa’s death just ten days before Hackman’s also raises questions about the validity of their wills.

What Happens Next?

While the legal battle over Hackman’s estate may be just beginning, it remains to be seen whether his children will challenge the provisions of his will. The unusual circumstances surrounding both Hackman and Arakawa’s deaths have left many wondering if there was foul play involved or if their deaths truly were a tragic accident. What is certain, however, is that the future of Hackman’s fortune may depend on the outcome of these legal proceedings.

Gene Hackman’s legacy as an actor is undisputed, but his family’s future remains uncertain due to the complexities of his estate. Whether his children will inherit anything or contest the will remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: Hackman’s life and death have left many questions unanswered.