Hollywood mourned the loss of Diane Keaton, who passed away on Saturday, October 11, at 79 years old. The beloved actress left behind a legacy not just of iconic roles, but also of deep personal connections. Her mentorship touched many, including her on-screen daughters. Lauren Graham, one such co-star, recently shared a glimpse into Keaton’s kind spirit.
Graham, 58, posted an emotional tribute on Instagram this Monday, October 13. She revealed a personal letter Keaton had sent her years ago. It was a time when Graham only dreamed of writing a book. The heartfelt message from Keaton read, "Please don’t disappear. Please invite me to one of your dinners. And finally… Please hug yourself in the morning and remember to write your book, and don’t let anxiety win, great achiever. With love, Di." Graham shared the letter, explaining how Keaton’s acting had always inspired her. She added that Keaton’s personal encouragement truly changed her life. Today, Graham is a well-known author, with several books under her belt, including Have I Told You This Already? from 2022.
The two actresses worked together on the 2007 movie Because I Said So. Keaton played Daphne Wilder, a mother trying to find love for her daughter, Maggie. Graham took on the role of Maggie. The film also featured a strong cast including Mandy Moore, Gabriel Macht, Tom Everett Scott, Piper Perabo, Stephen Collins, Colin Ferguson, and Tony Hale.
Fans poured out their grief and admiration in the comments of Graham’s post. "This is such a beautiful memory ❤️," one person wrote. Another expressed, "It’s the people we meet along the way who help shape our destiny 🩷." Many echoed sentiments like, "How lucky you are to have this part of her to treasure forever!" and "What a valuable friend. She seems to have encouraged everyone."
The circumstances of Keaton’s passing were private. Her cause of death was not immediately announced. However, a close friend later told People that her health took a sudden turn for the worse. This news was heartbreaking for those closest to her. During her final months, Keaton was surrounded only by her immediate family. They chose to keep her condition very quiet. Even long-time friends were not fully aware of what was happening.
Other actresses who played Keaton’s daughters on screen also shared their grief. Mandy Moore, 41, who starred alongside Keaton in Because I Said So, posted her own tribute on Instagram. Moore spoke of the honor of calling Keaton "mom" for a few months. She shared two photos with Keaton, writing, "They say don’t meet your heroes, but I had the chance to work with one of mine. What a luminous person Di is and was." Moore added, "I’m so sad she’s gone for all reasons. I felt she’d be here forever, dazzling us with her talent and charisma (and her style, of course!)." She called Keaton "one of the best to ever do it," sending love to her children and loved ones.
Emma Roberts, 34, who played Keaton’s daughter in the 2023 film Maybe I Do, also offered her respects. She posted a photo of Keaton on her Instagram Stories. "The best," Roberts simply stated. "How lucky to have worked with her. I love you, Diane."