Gene Hackman Brawls in Hollywood

Hackman was cruising the streets of West Hollywood when he rear-ended a Volvo station wagon that allegedly cut him off. The two cars pulled off to the side to exchange insurance information when the man driving the Volvo became extremely agitated, according to a bystander. The man, whose name was not released, was yelling in the actor’s face. Hackman remained calm until the man shoved the actor in the chest. At that point, Hackman punched him.

Hackman, an ex-Marine, got in a few good blows before being wrestled to the ground by the other driver. At that point a passer-by stopped to offer minor first aid assistance and bandages. Police arrived at the scene and kept the drivers separated. There was no visible damage to either car and neither party wished to press charges. No arrests were made and no police report was filed. Both drivers suffered minor scrapes and bruises. Hackman’s publicist, Dick Guttman, is quoted as saying, "He (Hackman) is a very gentle guy, but anyone can be provoked."

When not engaging in fisticuffs, Hackman, who is 71, is an avid auto racer, pilot and painter. He is also starring in a new movie, Heist, directed by David Mamet, which opens in theaters on November 9th.