Eugene Allen Hackman, or Gene Hackman as he was commonly known, passed away in February 2025, shortly after the death of his wife Betsy Arakawa. Although this tragedy is bad enough on its own, there are issues with their wills and Trusts that have raised serious legal concerns after their passing. Even worse, these documents were signed about two decades ago, making them potentially much harder to contest. Gene Hackman’s estate is estimated to be approximately $80 million dollars.
The Tragic Passing of Gene and Betsy Hackman
On February 26, 2025, Gene Hackman and his wife Betsy Arakawa were found deceased alongside one of their three pet dogs. Initially, carbon monoxide poisoning had been suspected, but it was quickly ruled out. After an autopsy, it was found that Betsy Hackman had actually died first due to a rare infection known as Hantavirus, while Gene Hackman died a week later from hypertensive atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, with complications from Alzheimer’s disease.
Probating the Estates of the Hackmans
Unfortunately, the issues related to their deaths would not end there. Specifically, both spouses named each other as the sole beneficiary of the other’s estate. Their Trusts named each other the trustees of their trusts when they were first created in 2005, leaving no one to handle their affairs in court since they are both deceased. In addition, although probate proceedings have already begun, there have not yet been any determinations made as to who the beneficiaries of their trusts would be.
The Risk of a Potential Will Contest
Gene Hackman had three children with his first wife, Faye Maltese. It has been reported that Gene Hackman’s Will does not mention his children and only named his wife Arakawa as the sole beneficiary. If one or more of Gene Hackman’s children are not named in the trust, they could lose out on the Trust assets. However, it can be extremely difficult to contest a Trust if properly drafted. Although, Gene Hackman had Alzheimer’s disease, the estate documents are over twenty years old, making it harder to any alleged claims that the documents were created when Gene Hackman was mentally incapable of executing documents due to his Alzheimer’s disease.
What Happens Now
While the issues related to the death of the Hackmans are sorted out, any assets in their estate will undergo probate, and their trusts will likely be distributed by a court-appointed trustee. However, that depends on whether one or more of the children decides to contest any Will or the trust, which could hold up proceedings for months or years. If that happens, it may be a very long time before any of the beneficiaries receive what they are entitled to under the Hackmans’ trusts or any Will.
If you or a loved one are dealing with legal issues related to estate planning, or you are dealing with any other issue related to elder law, you will need specialized legal advice. The attorneys at Hobson-Williams, P.C. are skilled in all aspects of elder law, and are dedicated to representing clients with diligence and compassion. To speak to an attorney or to schedule a consultation, call 866-825-1LAW.
