He wrote and co-wrote with Daniel Lenihan five historical fiction novels, including:
- Wake of the Perdido Star
- Justice for None
- Escape from Andersonville
- Payback at Morning Peak
- Pursuit
His last book came out in 2013.
A Legacy That Endures
Gene Hackman’s influence on the film industry remains undeniable. James Lipton, the longtime host of “Inside the Actors Studio,” once noted that Hackman’s name was mentioned more than any other when actors were asked about their greatest influences.
Born Gene Allen Hackman in San Bernardino, California, on January 30, 1930, he credited his love for film to his Canadian-born mother, a waitress who frequently took him to the movies.
Tragically, she died in a house fire in 1962, two years before his breakthrough role in film.
Hackman’s life took an unconventional path—at just 16, he lied about his age to join the Marines, serving in China while his high school peers remained stateside.
After his military service, he worked as a furniture mover and doorman before studying acting at the Pasadena Playhouse in his late 20s.
