Eugene Allen Hackman (born January 30, 1930) is an American retired actor with a career spanning more than six decades. He has received numerous accolades, including two Academy Awards, two BAFTA Awards, four Golden Globes, a Screen Actors Guild Award, and the Silver Bear. Notable roles include Best Actor-winning turn as Jimmy 'Popeye' Doyle in the acclaimed thriller 'The French Connection' (1971) and Best Supporting Actor for his role as 'Little' Bill Daggett in Clint Eastwood's Western film 'Unforgiven' (1992). He additionally starred in 'Bonnie and Clyde' (1967), 'I Never Sang for My Father' (1970), and 'Mississippi Burning' (1988), all of which earned him Oscar nominations.

His portrayal of Lex Luthor in 'Superman' (1978) and its sequels brought him further fame, starring alongside other noteworthy films such as 'The Poseidon Adventure' (1972), 'A Bridge Too Far' (1977), 'Under Fire' (1983), 'The Firm' (1993), 'Enemy of the State' (1998), and 'Runaway Jury' (2003). Hackman's impressive career was marked with consistent, high-caliber performances that demonstrated his astonishing range and a unique flair for understated brilliance. His diverse range of roles across genres illustrates his remarkable adaptability and versatility in the film industry.