Hollywood has lost a true icon. Legendary actress Diane Keaton has passed away at 79 years old.
A spokesperson for her family confirmed Keaton died in California on Saturday, October 11, according to reports from People magazine. Details about her passing are not yet available. Her family has asked for privacy during this difficult time.
Her representatives were contacted for comment.
Keaton was a beloved star, known for her unforgettable roles. She shined in classic films like The Godfather, Annie Hall, and Father of the Bride. More recently, she continued to charm audiences in the Book Club movies.
She once reflected on her early days in The Godfather at the 2017 Tribeca Film Festival. She felt like an "outsider," a "weirdo," wondering why she was even cast. "I had no voice," she admitted. Watching the film again decades later, she was blown away. "I saw it on my computer. I hadn’t seen it in, I think, about 30 years," she shared. "I just remember all the people, I couldn’t stand it, it was so amazing, so beautiful, and everybody’s so great in it, and the music, and every choice [Francis Ford Coppola] made."
Later in her career, Keaton became a true standout in romantic comedies. In 2022, she told Us that she was eager for more physical roles. Speaking about her part in Mack & Rita, she explained, "I got to do physical stuff, which I loved, and that made me want to do more physical stuff in movies as opposed to just not using my body." She truly enjoyed it. "I haven’t had a chance to do that in a long time," she added. "I want to do more of that in something. I hope something like that comes along."
She also said of the character, "I’ve never done anything that stupid. It fit my personality. You get to be a ‘fool.’ That’s when I feel best. That’s why I want to do another movie where I can do more of that. It probably won’t happen."
Around the same time, Keaton discussed a possible Father of the Bride sequel. She mentioned what it would take to reunite with co-stars Steve Martin, Martin Short, Kimberly Williams Paisley, and Kieran Culkin. “Nobody’s brought anything up,” Keaton told Us in 2022. "But if it were to happen, of course. Of course, I would do it." She praised her former co-stars. "Steven, Marty, I mean, now they have their TV show (Only Murders in the Building). They’re giants, and they’re incredibly talented, funny, intelligent actors and all that stuff. We all know that, and it works. What they do on TV is really remarkable."
Beyond her celebrated acting, Keaton explored other creative paths. She even ran home decor and eyewear businesses. She also wrote several books and released a Christmas single called "First Christmas" in 2024.
Keaton is survived by her two children, Dexter and Duke. She adopted them when she was in her fifties. She once shared her thoughts on motherhood with Ladie’s Home Journal in 2008. "I never thought I’d be ready to be a mother," she confessed. "Motherhood wasn’t an impulse I couldn’t resist; it was more like an idea I’d been thinking about for a long time. So I just jumped in."
Her daughter, Dexter, often honored her mother on social media through the years. In a June 2023 tribute, Dexter wrote, "My mom and I have always loved going on adventures together. From beach walks to walking through a new neighborhood." She continued, "I love spending time with my mom. We always have a great time together. I love my mom."