'Hoosiers' Lead Actor Dead at 95

Gene Hackman was found dead alongside his wife and dog on Wednesday afternoon.

Gene Hackman. Shutterstock photo.

SANTA FE - Gene Hackman, his wife and dog, were found dead in their Santa Fe home on Wednesday afternoon, according to multiple reports. 

Hackman, an Academy Award winning actor, is perhaps best known for his role in Clint Eastwood's Western film Unforgiven (1992), but residents of Indiana and basketball fans across the country may best know Hackman for his role as Norman Dale in the movie Hoosiers.

The 1986 film based on the story of the 1954 State Champion Milan Indians was named the fourth-greatest sports film of all time in a 2008 American Film Institute poll. 

According to reports, there is not any foul play suspected in the deaths of the Hackmans. Gene was 95. His wife was 63. 

The cause of death remains under investigation. 

More from Local News

Events

Evening, Overnight Lane Closures on Brent Spence Bridge on Monday

Preparations continue for the Brent Spence Bridge Corridor Project.

Bill Co-Authored, Sponsored by Patterson Ceremonially Signed by Gov. Braun

The bills improve health care access, and support first responders.

Local Sports Report - April 17-18, 2026

Lots of high school sports action over the weekend.

Local Sports Report - April 16, 2026

Report missing stats and scores to news@eaglecountryonline.com

Rising Sun Opening Day Set for April 25

Parade, picnic and ballpark party.

On Air

Your Hometown Radio Station playing
Keith Urban - God Whispered Your Name

Zac Brown Band Highway 20 Ride 23:29
Glen Campbell Rhinestone Cowboy 23:25
Parmalee Girl in Mine 23:23
Kenny Chesney No Shoes, No Shirt, No Problem 23:20