Throughout his career, Hackman demonstrated an exceptional commitment to his craft, meticulously editing scripts to ensure he could fully embody his characters without interference. He also had no patience for colleagues who were unprepared, notably clashing with John Travolta during the filming of "Get Shorty." Staying true to his preference for solitude and focused work, Hackman avoided typical Hollywood socializing, often returning to his home after filming. After retiring in 2004, he settled in Santa Fe, New Mexico while reflecting that despite missing the art of acting, he found the industry itself to be overwhelmingly stressful. Following his death, a police investigation into the circumstances surrounding it suggests that he had been deceased since February 17.

Hackman leaves behind a legacy as one of Hollywood’s most talented yet enigmatic actors, cherished by those who knew him without the distractions usually associated with celebrity life.

"I suspect that one of the reasons he moved to Santa Fe was as far away from Hollywood as you can get," said Barry Sonnenfeld, reflecting on Hackman’s preference for a peaceful existence rather than the chaos of fame.