Bonhams will auction works from the collection of late actor Gene Hackman this November, spanning three sales—one live and two online. The live sale, titled “Gene Hackman: A Life in Art, Part I,” takes place November 19 in New York and features highlights such as Milton Avery’s 1957 painting *Figure on the Jetty* (estimate $500,000–$700,000) and Richard Diebenkorn’s 1986 color etching *Green* (estimate $300,000–$500,000). Online sales include two of Hackman’s Golden Globes, a still life painting by the actor himself, and additional lots of annotated books, scripts, and cinematic memorabilia. Hackman, who died in February, was a major arts patron in Santa Fe, a painter, and a board member of the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum.
The sale matters because it offers rare insight into the private art collection of a celebrated actor who was also a serious collector and patron, revealing his taste alongside his own creative output. The auction bridges Hollywood memorabilia and fine art, potentially attracting both film fans and seasoned art collectors. It also underscores the growing trend of celebrity estates entering the art market, with estimates that could draw significant attention during New York’s marquee fall auction season.