The plot thickens in the Gene Hackman vs. homeless man story. News outlets are now reporting that Hackman had provided clothing, money, and rides to the homeless man (Bruce Becker, 63) he slapped this week. Hackman's support of Becker spans back several years, according to accounts from both Hackman and Becker. Becker approached Hackman and his wife this week, asking for money. When Hackman didn't oblige, Becker verbally threatened the couple which led to Hackman's slap.
SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — Actor Gene Hackman had given clothes, money and rides to a homeless man whom he slapped this week after the man became aggressive toward the Oscar-winning actor and his wife, according to a police report detailing the incident in Santa Fe, N.M.
Police say Hackman acted in self-defense and no charges have been filed.
Hackman told officers he had helped Bruce Becker, 63, for several years, and Becker told a similar story. But their versions of the actual physical confrontation diverge, with Hackman saying he slapped the man once and Becker saying he was hit 10 to 12 times by the tough-guy actor.
