Gene Hackman and Wife Betsy’s Will Revealed After Their Death
The details of Gene Hackman and Betsy’s will have been revealed following the death of the 95-year-old Oscar-winning actor and his wife, Betsy, in late February. Documents filed in Santa Fe County Court outline how Hackman structured his estate, trust, and final wishes – but some details remain private.
What Gene Hackman’s Will Says
According to legal documents, Hackman originally appointed his wife Betsy as the personal representative and primary beneficiary of his estate. However, with Betsy passing before him, his estate now follows the provisions of the GeBe Revocable Trust, which he created in September 1995.
With Betsy no longer able to serve as the estate’s representative, Hackman had designated Michael G. Sutin, a Santa Fe attorney, as his first alternate. However, Sutin passed away in 2019, leading to the appointment of Julia L. Peters, chief counsel at Avalon Trust Co., as the current representative.
Who Inherits Gene Hackman’s Estate?
Court filings confirm that Hackman’s three adult children – whom he shared with his first wife, Faye Maltese – are named as heirs: Christopher, 65, Elizabeth, 62, and Leslie, 58.
However, details about the specific beneficiaries of the GeBe Revocable Trust have not been made public. Legal expert David Esquibias explains:
“Since Betsy died first, her estate transferred into Gene’s trust. When Gene passed, his trust now goes to whoever he named as beneficiaries. But because the trust isn’t public, we don’t yet know exactly who inherits what.”
How Betsy Hackman’s Estate Was Handled
Betsy’s will, signed on the same day as Gene’s in 2005, outlined that her estate expenses, funeral costs, and administrative fees would be covered by her assets. Her remaining estate was transferred into a charitable trust to fund community-beneficial projects in line with her and Gene’s shared philanthropic interests.
“Betsy’s will ensures that their estate contributes to causes they supported during their lifetime,” Esquibias added.
What Led to Their Tragic Passing?
Authorities determined that Betsy died from hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, a rare disease caused by exposure to rodent droppings, urine, or saliva. Shockingly, she passed away one week before Gene, meaning he may have been alone in their home with her body for days.
Gene Hackman later succumbed to severe heart disease, high blood pressure, and advanced Alzheimer’s disease, per the official report released on March 7.
Gene Hackman’s Legacy
Hackman, best known for his iconic roles in The French Connection, Unforgiven, and The Royal Tenenbaums, retired from acting in 2004 and lived a quiet life in New Mexico. Despite stepping away from Hollywood, his legacy as one of cinema’s greatest actors remains intact.
Since the GeBe Revocable Trust remains private, it is unclear whether his fortune will be divided solely among his children or if additional beneficiaries – including charities – are involved.
For now, the court has officially granted Julia L. Peters informal control of Hackman’s estate moving forward.
While some details about Hackman’s estate distribution remain private, what is clear is that his final wishes prioritized his family and philanthropy. His children and the causes he supported will continue to carry forward his legacy.
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