‘Carers need care, too’: Bruce Willis’s wife speaks out after deaths of Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa

Emma Heming Willis, who is primary carer for the actor since his dementia diagnosis in 2023, says there is ‘a broader story’ to tell about their plight

Emma Heming Willis, the primary carer for her husband, the actor Bruce Willis, who is suffering from a rare form of dementia, has issued a statement in the wake of the deaths of Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa.

An investigation by local authorities concluded last week that Arakawa, 65, died of a rare respiratory disease around seven days before her husband, meaning that it was likely he spent a week by himself, disorientated and increasingly malnourished.

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What to know about deaths of Gene Hackman and his wife as authorities release causes

Authorities revealed new information on Friday about the deaths of actor Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa. Hackman died of heart disease, officials said, and Arakawa was killed by ...
CBS News - 2d
Gene Hackman’s final days marked by isolation: ‘Slowing down and reclusive’

The actor was likely alone in his house for days, disoriented and too frail to seek help, after death of wife Betsy Arakawa. The actor Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa, who were found dead ...
The Guardian - 2d
Gene Hackman died of natural causes days after wife died of rare respiratory virus

Cause of Betsy Arakawa’s death was hantavirus pulmonary syndrome while Hackman died of heart disease, with advanced Alzheimer’s disease contributing. The actor Gene Hackman died of natural causes ...
The Guardian - 4d
Investigation advances into Gene Hackman's mysterious death, with update by New Mexico authorities

Authorities are preparing to reveal more information about the investigation into the deaths of actor Gene Hackman and his wife, Betsy Arakawa
ABC News - 5d
Actor Gene Hackman and wife Betsy Arakawa died of natural causes one week apart

The 95-year-old actor's Alzheimer's means it is "quite possible" he was unaware of his wife's death, say officials.
BBC News - 4d
Gene Hackman, Betsy Arakawa died of natural causes days apart, officials say

Officials have revealed a tragic timeline for how legendary actor Gene Hackman spent his final days. Both Hackman and his wife Betsy Arakawa died of natural causes, with her dying days before him ...
CBS News - 4d
What Is Hantavirus, the Disease That Killed Gene Hackman’s Wife?

Ms. Arakawa, the wife of the actor Gene Hackman, died from the effects of a disease often caused by contact with droppings from infected rodents.
The New York Times - 4d
How to Care for a Loved One With Dementia: 5 Expert Tips

Gene Hackman was cared for by his wife in his final years. Her unexpected death highlights the essential and challenging job of those who care for Alzheimer’s patients.
The New York Times - 3d
Gene Hackman Lost His Wife and Caregiver, and Spent 7 Days Alone

The exact details may never be known, but Mr. Hackman, 95 with advanced Alzheimer’s, was alone for about a week after his wife and sole caregiver died.
The New York Times - 3d

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