Advertisement
Gene Hackman, the esteemed actor, made headlines simply by making a mundane trip to a gas station, showcasing how rare sightings of him have become. At 94 years old, his public appearances are so infrequent that media outlets dissect his every move, including his fashion choices.
One reason for Hackman’s ability to maintain his privacy is his choice of residence. After spending years in the bustling cities of New York and California, he opted for a quieter life in Santa Fe, New Mexico, starting in the late 1980s. In an interview with Architectural Digest, Hackman described discovering the magic of New Mexico during a film shoot, which eventually led him to settle there permanently.
Rather than building a new house, Hackman purchased a fixer-upper and enlisted the help of Santa Fe architects Harry Daple and Stephen Samuelson to transform it into his ideal home. The house underwent a remarkable renovation, reflecting Hackman’s desire for a more personal and comfortable living space compared to his previous properties in California.
Hackman’s decision to retire from Hollywood aligns with his desire for a peaceful life in Santa Fe. Following the release of the 2004 comedy “Welcome to Mooseport,” he shocked many by announcing his retirement from acting. A health scare in New York served as a wake-up call, prompting him to prioritize his well-being over his career. Instead of pursuing acting roles, Hackman found solace in writing, publishing his first novel in 1999. Despite occasional offers to return to acting, he remains steadfast in his decision to enjoy his retirement in the tranquility of his Santa Fe home.