Diane Keaton, a beloved icon of film, has passed away at the age of 79 in California. This surprising news was confirmed by People magazine. Her family has asked for privacy during this difficult time.
Keaton was a unique figure in cinema. She became famous for her role in “Annie Hall” in 1977, a film based on her own life. With her trademark hats, turtlenecks, and wide trousers, she stood out in Hollywood.
Her first major role was in “The Godfather,” where she played Michael Corleone’s wife. She reprised this role in the sequels. Over her career, Diane earned several Oscar nominations, including for “Reds,” “Marvin’s Room,” and “Something’s Gotta Give.” She wasn’t afraid to tackle complex characters, as seen in films like “Looking for Mr. Goodbar” and “The Good Mother.”
Diane had a close working relationship with Woody Allen. They collaborated on many films, including “Sleeper” and “Manhattan.” Even amid controversies around Allen, she remained supportive of him.
In recent years, she starred in “Book Club: The Next Chapter,” released in 2023. Diane enjoyed her work, telling the Guardian, “It gives me an opportunity to get to know more people in a different realm. I love it.”
Beyond acting, Diane had a passion for photography, often capturing doors and abandoned buildings. She found beauty in their stories, stating, “Life is haunting!”
Diane became a mother when she adopted her daughter, Dexter, in 1996, and son, Duke, in 2000. She spoke about how motherhood changed her, calling it “the most humbling experience.”
She also cared for her mother during her battle with Alzheimer’s until her death in 2008. Diane viewed her mother as her biggest inspiration, often sharing her memories in her autobiographies.
In 2017, Diane received a lifetime achievement award from the American Film Institute. She expressed gratitude to her collaborators and celebrated her career. She continued to pursue her interests, including real estate and various product lines.
Diane’s final performance involved a festive single, “First Christmas,” released in December 2024. Her last social media post featured a photo with her beloved golden retriever, Reggie.
As we remember Diane Keaton, we honor not just her incredible talent but also her genuine spirit and love for life.
For more on her impact on film, visit the American Film Institute.