The passing of actor Gene Hackman at age 95 brought memories of his impactful role in The Royal Tenenbaums to the forefront during a 2011 panel discussion featuring director Wes Anderson and cast members. As the patriarch Royal Tenenbaum, Hackman contrasted Anderson's whimsical style with his gritty on-screen presence. The panel reflected on Hackman's uniqueness on set and his earlier contemplations of retirement. Despite being apart for years, the panelists expressed a respectful admiration for Hackman, underlining his lasting legacy in film.
Hackman, who was found dead on Wednesday afternoon with his wife at their home in Santa Fe, N.M., at the age of 95, loomed over The Royal Tenenbaums in every possible sense.
At the time of filming The Royal Tenenbaums, Hackman was already considering a retirement that just a few years later he announced and stuck to, Anderson said.
The tone throughout the panel, particularly from Anderson, was respectful and appreciative. But it was clear that Hackman stood out on set.
None of the panelists had been in touch with Hackman during the intervening years, they said. And they all remembered him being terse with Anderson.
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