Gene Hackman, Iconic Lex Luthor Actor, Dies at 95

Gene Hackman, the beloved actor known for his iconic role as Lex Luthor in the original Superman films, has passed away at the age of 95, found alongside his wife in their home in Santa Fe. Hackman's portrayal of Luthor, which balanced humor and menace, set a high standard for the character, making him a memorable villain in cinematic history. His contributions to the film industry spanned over six decades, with notable performances in classics such as The French Connection and Unforgiven. Following his retirement from acting in 2004, Hackman shifted his focus to writing, reflecting his preference for solitude. Tributes highlight how Hackman's unique take on Luthor blended charm and danger, making the character both comically egotistical and formidable. As the Superman franchise evolves, Hackman's legacy as Lex Luthor remains unmatched, paving the way for future interpretations of the character.