If you’re dealing with the sudden loss of a loved one who died without clearly naming heirs in their will—or died intestate entirely—you’re likely facing confusion about who inherits what, how to navigate probate court, and whether the state could claim assets. The recent case of legendary actor Gene Hackman reveals exactly how complex inheritance can become when circumstances change unexpectedly.
Understanding the Gene Hackman Estate Case
Gene Hackman, who passed away in February 2025 with an estimated $80 million fortune, left his entire estate to his wife of 30 years, Betsy Arakawa—without naming his three children from his first marriage. However, Betsy died from complications of hantavirus pulmonary syndrome approximately one week before Gene’s death, creating a complicated legal situation that many families face but few anticipate.
The couple had signed their wills in 2005, each naming the other as primary beneficiary. This seemingly straightforward plan became significantly more complex due to the timing of their deaths.
Who Inherits When the Named Beneficiary Dies First?
When a married person leaves everything to their spouse but the spouse predeceases them, the estate typically follows intestate succession laws. In Gene Hackman’s case:
- Gene’s three children—Christopher Allen, Elizabeth Jean, and Leslie Anne Hackman—were not mentioned in his will
- Because Betsy died first, legal experts suggest the children could claim inheritance to his estate under intestate succession laws
- California attorney Tre Lovell explained: “The estate will actually be probated in accordance with intestate succession laws and the children would be lawfully next in line to inherit”
- However, the children would need to prove that Betsy died before Gene to establish their claim
How Do Simultaneous Deaths Affect Estate Distribution?
The Hackman case illustrates a critical estate planning concern: what happens when spouses die within days or weeks of each other?
- Betsy’s will included a provision that if they died within 90 days of each other and Gene predeceased her, her estate would go to a trust and later to charity
- Legal expert David Esquibias explained the sequence: “Betsy died first, so she left everything to the Gene Hackman trust. He outlives her. So he theoretically inherits from Betsy into his trust, and then when he dies, his trust goes to whoever his trust beneficiaries are”
- Court documents have named Christopher, Elizabeth, and Leslie as Gene’s heirs
The estate includes the couple’s Santa Fe home, valued at $3.8 million and sitting on 12 acres of land.
Common Questions Families Ask About Intestate Succession
What happens if I die without naming my children in my will?
If you name only your spouse and your spouse predeceases you, your estate may be distributed according to state intestacy laws, which typically prioritize children as next of kin.
Can adult children contest a will if they’re not mentioned?
Adult children can petition the probate court, especially in cases where the named beneficiary has predeceased the deceased or when there’s evidence the will doesn’t reflect the decedent’s final wishes.
How can I prevent confusion about who inherits my estate?
Comprehensive estate planning should include:
- Contingent beneficiaries (backup heirs if your primary beneficiary dies first)
- Clear instructions about simultaneous death scenarios
- Regular will updates, especially after major life changes
- Trusts that specify multiple levels of beneficiaries
Why Estate Planning Updates Matter
Gene Hackman’s will was signed in 2005—20 years before his death. During that time, his first estate representative, attorney Michael G. Sutin, passed away in 2019, requiring the appointment of a successor representative. This demonstrates why periodic review of estate documents is essential.
Protecting Your Family from Intestate Succession Challenges
If you’re concerned about what happens to your estate—or you’re dealing with the estate of a loved one who died without a clear succession plan—you need experienced probate guidance.
At California Probate and Trust, we help families navigate complex inheritance situations, including:
- Petitioning for administration when someone dies intestate
- Establishing guardianships for minor heirs
- Resolving disputes about estate distribution
- Creating comprehensive estate plans with contingent beneficiaries
- Updating outdated wills and trusts to reflect current family dynamics
Our Sacramento-based team has represented thousands of clients facing these exact challenges. We understand the emotional and financial stress that comes with uncertain inheritance situations.
Take Control of Your Estate Planning Today
Don’t leave your family facing the confusion and potential conflict that comes with intestate succession or outdated estate documents. Whether you need to create a comprehensive estate plan or navigate the probate process after a loved one’s death, California Probate and Trust offers free consultations to assess your specific situation.
Schedule your free estate planning consultation today by calling (866) 674-1130 or visiting cpt.law/contact-us.
Read the full story about Gene Hackman’s estate at Hello Magazine.