To the editor: Gene Hackman’s brilliant movie career spanned decades, but the murky circumstances surrounding his tragic death, as well as the death of his wife and one of their dogs, appears much like a Hollywood mystery movie. Nevertheless, it’s a sad and abrupt ending to the Oscar-winning and legendary actor’s successful life. But in the meantime, let us hope that police detectives, as well as an autopsy report, will be able to solve the enigma by discovering what caused the three deaths.
JoAnn Lee Frank, Clearwater, Fla.
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To the editor: Waiting to board a Southwest Albuquerque-to-Burbank flight, we milled about in our boarding groups — A, B and C— somewhat like cattle. This was before Southwest introduced numbers within groups. Then I recognized Gene Hackman, standing patiently in the B group. That impressed me; he seemed entirely unpretentious.
Bob Wieting, Simi Valley
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To the editor: Among so many others, I mourn the passing of Gene Hackman. He was a Hollywood great and deserved a front-page obituary. When Alan Arkin died in 2023, his obituary landed unceremoniously in the California section. Like Hackman, Arkin was the recipient of many awards, including an Oscar. Many of his characters were legendary, and I don’t understand why he wasn’t given the same accolades and front-page attention. He was just as great an actor.
Joanne Turner, Eagle Rock
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To the editor: I am truly saddened to hear about the passing of Gene Hackman. One of my all-time favorite actors — an absolute legend, a versatile entertainer. Hollywood has lost one of its greatest, but his performances will live on forever.
Paul Bacon, Hallandale Beach, Fla.
