Good Morning Britain’s Richard Madeley brought Thursday’s (February 27) show to a sombre pause as he delivered some tragic “breaking” news.
In the latest broadcast of the ITV morning show, Richard, alongside his co-presenter Kate Garraway, shared the devastating news that iconic actor Gene Hackman had died alongside his wife, Betsy Arakawa. Their pet dog was also found deceased in their Santa Fe residence.
“We’ve got some breaking news that’s just come in. Hollywood legend Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy, have been found dead in their home in Santa Fe, alongside their dog,” Richard announced.
“As I say, the couple’s dog was also found dead inside the property. The police have said there was no immediate indication of foul play. The couple have been married, apparently, since 1991. That’s all we have at the moment, but any more, of course, we’ll bring to you.”
“Yes, we will bring you more. That’s incredibly shocking and immediately questions are going to be asked as to why, but how devastating,” Kate remarked, reports the Manchester Evening News.
Further into the programme, the presenters updated viewers with additional details provided by the authorities.
“A little bit more information coming through to us now on that pretty shocking breaking news we brought to you a few minutes ago,” Kate informed.
“The local sheriff has made a statement, but it’s pretty limited on detail. He confirmed that there was no immediate indication of foul play but did not provide a cause of death, which, of course, has prompted a lot of speculation about what might have gone wrong. Richard Arnold and others are looking into more detail.”
Santa Fe County Sheriff Adan Mendoza announced to the press just past midnight on Wednesday the sad passing of Gene Hackman and his wife, along with their dog, at their Sunset Trail home.
“We can confirm that both Gene Hackman and his wife were found deceased Wednesday afternoon at their residence on Sunset Trail,” he stated.
“This is an active investigation – however, at this time, we do not believe that foul play was a factor.”
Gene’s illustrious career stretched over six decades, in which he won numerous accolades including two Oscars, two BAFTAs, four Golden Globes, and a Screen Actors Guild Award.
Remembered for his iconic portrayal of Lex Luthor in the Superman films of the 70s and 80s, Gene also shone in big hits like Runaway Jury and The Conservation, not forgetting his role in Wes Anderson’s The Royal Tenenbaums.
Good Morning Britain airs weekdays on ITV1 and ITVX at 6am