Gene Hackman’s Final Autopsy Reveals Troubling Detail About His Health

• Apr 28, 2025

Gene Hackman, the legendary actor known for his roles in The French Connection and Unforgiven, died in February at the age of 95, and new details from his autopsy report have raised serious concerns. According to Fox News, the report showed elevated acetone levels in Hackman's body, suggesting he may not have eaten for an extended period before his death.

The presence of acetone in the body can have several causes. While acetone is commonly found in household products, the autopsy report highlighted that it can also be a natural byproduct of the body during diabetic- or fasting-induced ketoacidosis. In addition, acetone can result from isopropanol ingestion, which involves consuming a type of alcohol that is not meant for drinking. Another possible cause, according to Healthline, is prolonged starvation.

The chilling discovery of high acetone levels points to the likelihood that Hackman experienced a significant period without proper nutrition prior to his death. It remains unclear whether this was due to a medical condition, complications related to age, or another unknown factor. However, the findings add a somber layer to the end of the celebrated actor’s life.

Gene Hackman had a long and successful career spanning decades, winning two Academy Awards and becoming one of Hollywood’s most respected talents. He retired from acting in the early 2000s and lived a private life afterward, making rare public appearances.

At 95, Hackman had lived far longer than many of his peers, but the new information about his health in his final days suggests that his death may have involved more physical hardship than previously known. As of now, there have been no additional public statements from his family or representatives addressing the autopsy’s findings.

This final detail about Hackman’s death serves as a reminder of how complicated end-of-life health issues can be, even for those who once seemed larger than life on the big screen.