Gene Hackman’s daughters were seen in public for the first time following the tragic and shocking deaths of their father and his wife, Betsy Arakawa. The sisters, Elizabeth and Leslie Hackman, appeared composed as they dined together at a California restaurant, attempting to process their immense loss.
On Thursday, the two were spotted stepping out together for a quiet meal at an all-day breakfast chain. Photos obtained showed them arriving in a gray SUV, their expressions calm despite the tragedy that had unfolded just a day earlier.
The sighting immediately sparked conversations online. Some social media users criticized their composed demeanor, questioning how they could appear so relaxed so soon after their father’s passing. “I know people grieve differently, but when your dad was found the way he was, and with an investigation ongoing, they look way too happy and relaxed,” one person commented. Others echoed similar sentiments, writing, “They look very happy… why?” and “This whole thing is just weird and strange.”
Authorities discovered the bodies of Hackman and Arakawa in their Santa Fe home on February 26. A caretaker placed a distressing 911 call just before 2 p.m., reporting two unresponsive individuals visible through a window.
Sheriff deputies arrived shortly after and confirmed their deaths along with one of their dogs. While there were no immediate signs of foul play, an investigation remains underway as the family and the public seek answers.
