- Actor Gene Hackman, winner of Best Supporting Actor at academy awards in March 1993. Hackman will turn 80 years on Jan. 30, 2010. (AP Photo, File) LOS ANGELES — Gene Hackman, the two-time Oscar-winning actor,

Hackman portrays a retired football player in Los Angeles. In his new job as a private investigator, he finds that his wife is having an affair.

Actors Christopher Reeve, left, and co-star Gene Hackman arrive at the premiere of the movie "Superman" in Los Angeles, Ca., on Dec. 15, 1978. (AP Photo/, File)

It’s a tall task to try to whittle Gene Hackman’s career down to five notable films. One of the 20th century’s greatest actors, Hackman’s career spanned more than 40 years and a variety of roles, from tough-guy parts to comedic turns,

One of the 20th century's greatest actors, Hackman's career spanned more than 40 years and a variety of roles.

One of the greatest American actors of the 20th century was voted “least likely to succeed” by his first theater school, wasn’t a star until he was 40 and possessed a face he once described as “your everyday mineworker.

The star of “The French Connection” took the leap into acting at the Pasadena Playhouse, launching a five-decade career.

From his signature roles in ‘The French Connection’ and ‘Unforgiven’ to stunners like ‘Bonnie and Clyde,’ ‘Night Moves’ and ‘The Conversation’ and forays into comedy like ‘The Birdcage’ and ‘The Royal Tenenbaums,

Gruff in demeanor yet much beloved, Gene Hackman was one of the finest actors of his generation. The 95-year-old actor was found dead in his New Mexico home with his wife, Betsy Arakawa, and their dog,

A Hollywood superstar and two-time Oscar winner who stood out by blending in. Gene Hackman, a celebrated actor whose death at 95 was announced on Thursday, stood out in Hollywood for his ability not to stand out.