Who Inherits Gene Hackman and Wife Betsy’s Estate? Why the Order of Their Deaths Could Have Major Legal Consequences, Experts Warn.
The estate of legendary actor Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, has become a topic of legal intrigue after their deaths—especially regarding the inheritance of their vast fortune. Although the couple’s wealth, which includes real estate, investments, and other assets, was once considered straightforward, a critical question remains: who inherits their estate, and how did the order of their deaths impact the distribution?
Legal experts warn that, in this case, the timing of Hackman’s death could significantly affect who will benefit from the couple's estate.
Hackman’s Estate and the Order of Death
Gene Hackman, a two-time Academy Award-winning actor, passed away at the age of 95 on February 18, 2025, just days after the death of his wife, Betsy Arakawa. The authorities were able to estimate the time of Mr. Hackman's death by using information from his pacemaker, which led them to conclude he died nearly a week after his wife.
While many assume that the surviving spouse would inherit the estate, the exact order of death can dramatically affect how wealth is distributed—especially when large estates are involved and the proper legal documentation may be in question.
For Hackman and Arakawa, who were married for decades, the question of inheritance becomes more complicated by California's unique laws. In a state like California, the order in which the spouses pass away is key. Since California follows community property laws, Hackman and Arakawa’s wealth would have been divided between them, but the passing of one spouse first changes how the estate would be passed on. Experts suggest that the lack of clear documentation on the details of their wills may add further complexities to the process.
California Inheritance Laws and Their Impact
California does not impose inheritance taxes or estate taxes, which simplifies the process for residents like Hackman and Arakawa. However, while the state is free of state-level taxes, there are other critical factors to consider in the distribution of their wealth. A valid will or estate plan is crucial, and if either of the Hackmans had a living trust or will, the situation may have been more straightforward.
Related: A Timeline of How Actor Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa Died
In the event of Gene Hackman’s death, his estate would typically pass directly to Betsy, assuming a joint living trust or a well-drafted will was in place. However, with Betsy passing away first, the estate would likely need to undergo probate, potentially leading to a much lengthier and more complicated process. With Hackman’s death following hers, the legal battle over their estate could involve more than just the distribution of property; it could hinge on how assets were legally structured, who the beneficiaries are, and how much the estate is worth after both deaths.
Probate, Community Property, and Inheritance Laws
In California, where Hackman and Arakawa lived, community property laws dictate that any assets acquired during the marriage are considered jointly owned. This means that, for most assets, Hackman and Arakawa would each have a claim to half of the property. Upon the death of one spouse, the surviving spouse typically inherits their share. However, the precise division of assets becomes more complicated when it comes to high-value estates, such as that of Hackman and Arakawa.
Since the Hackmans were married for many years, the bulk of their assets would likely fall under community property. Yet, if either Hackman or Arakawa had separate property (e.g., assets from before the marriage or acquired through inheritance), those would be divided differently in the event of death. The surviving spouse would have rights to half of the community property, but there could be contested claims regarding separate property, further adding to the complexity of the estate’s division.
Dying Without a Valid Will: What Happens to the Estate?
The Hackman-Arakawa estate also raises the issue of what happens if no valid will or estate plan was in place at the time of their deaths. In California, without a valid will, the estate would pass according to intestate succession laws, meaning the state would determine how assets are distributed among heirs. This process often leads to lengthy probate court battles and can result in unintended beneficiaries inheriting parts of the estate.
In a case like Hackman’s, where there may be considerable wealth and potential business assets involved, a lengthy court battle could ensue, and the court could step in to decide how best to distribute assets, including determining whether Hackman’s estate was subject to federal estate taxes, which would apply to estates worth over $13.99 million in 2025.
Details about Gene Hackman's trust remain private, making it unclear whether his three adult children—Christopher, 65, Elizabeth, 62, and Leslie, 58, from his first marriage to Faye Maltese—are beneficiaries, according to Esquibias.
It’s been reported that Christopher has enlisted the help of trust and estate attorney Andrew M. Katzenstein.
The Importance of Estate Planning: What We Can Learn
While the Hackman-Arakawa situation may seem isolated, it highlights a key takeaway for anyone with significant assets: estate planning is absolutely crucial. The events surrounding their deaths demonstrate how the timing of deaths, along with a clear and well-structured estate plan, can make all the difference. Without a properly executed will, living trust, or clear instructions, heirs may face extended legal processes, probate, and even costly legal battles.
Experts advise all individuals, particularly those with substantial assets, to ensure their estate is planned ahead of time. Working with a financial advisor or estate attorney is vital to making sure your wishes are honored and that your loved ones are protected in the event of your death.
In the case of Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa, their story is one of fame and fortune—but it’s also a cautionary tale. While the two were beloved figures in Hollywood, their passing could lead to years of legal wrangling over their estate, underscoring the need for careful planning and legal foresight.
