“If you look at yourself as a star, you’ve already lost something in the portrayal of any human being.”

-Gene Hackman

“I left home when I was 16 because I was looking for adventure.”

-Gene Hackman

“The difference between a hero and a coward is one step sideways.”

-Gene Hackman

“I have trouble with direction, because I have trouble with authority. I was not a good Marine.”

-Gene Hackman

“I was trained to be an actor, not a star. I was trained to play roles, not to deal with fame and agents and lawyers and the press.”

-Gene Hackman

“The worst job I ever had was working in the Chrysler building. I was part of a team of about five guys, and we polished the leather furniture.”

-Gene Hackman