Friends and loved ones have expressed shock over the heartbreaking series of events. Though Hackman had been in cognitive decline, some found it difficult to believe he was entirely unable to seek help. A longtime friend noted that Hackman had still been writing and painting despite his condition,

Officials ruled both deaths as natural, but the circumstances paint a sorrowful picture of a once-great actor spending his final days isolated and unaware of the tragedy around him. Hackman and Arakawa, who had shared over 30 years together, leave behind a legacy of love and an ending that has deeply saddened Hollywood and fans alike.