Oscar-winner Gene Hackman found dead alongside wife at home

They were discovered alongside the family dog.

The 95-year-old was discovered dead next to his wife, 63-year-old classical pianist Betsy Arakawa, and the couple's dog on Wednesday morning (26 February).

The death of the couple was confirmed just after midnight by Santa Fe Country Sheriff Adan Mendoza.

The Sheriff said there is no immediate indication of foul play, although a cause of death has not been provided or when the couple might have died.

Hackman and Arakawa had been married since 1991.

The actor found stardom in 1967 after starring in Bonnie and Clyde, with later acclaimed roles including The Conversation, Crimson Tide, Enemy of the State, The Firm, Get Shorty, Hoosiers, Mississippi Burning, Night Moves, No Way Out, The Poseidon Adventure, The Quick and the Dead, The Royal Tenenbaums and Superman.

He also won Academy Awards for his performances in The French Connection and Unforgiven.

Since 2004 the actor has been relatively reclusive, not appearing in any works or being often seen.

Upon leaving his acting career behind he left Los Angeles and moved to New Mexico for a quieter life.

He played more than 100 roles throughout his career.