Diane Keaton, the Oscar-winning actress renowned for her roles in Annie Hall, The Godfather, and Father of the Bride, has passed away at the age of 79 in California. Her death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from fans and colleagues alike, celebrating her contributions to film and her distinctive style.
A Sudden Decline
In the months leading up to her death, Keaton’s health reportedly declined very suddenly. A close friend noted that the change was unexpected, especially for someone known for her strength and spirit. Her family chose to keep her condition private, and even longtime friends were not fully aware of the severity of her illness. In March, Keaton listed her Los Angeles home for sale, a place she had previously expressed a desire to stay in permanently, which raised concerns among those close to her.
Health Challenges
Throughout her life, Keaton was open about her health struggles. In 2015, she revealed to the Los Angeles Times that she had a family history of skin cancer, including cases involving her father and brother. Despite this, she admitted to not paying attention to sun protection in her youth, which she later regretted. In her 20s, she was diagnosed with basal cell carcinoma and later developed squamous cell cancer, requiring two surgeries to remove the affected areas. Additionally, Keaton disclosed her battle with bulimia, describing episodes where she would consume large quantities of food before making herself vomit. She mentioned instances of consuming up to 20,000 calories in a single day, including foods like a bucket of chicken, several orders of fries, and multiple desserts. Seeking help, she attended therapy sessions five days a week, which she credited with aiding her recovery.
Final Public Appearance
Keaton’s last public appearance was during a holiday shopping trip in late 2024. Her final Instagram post, dated April 11, 2025, featured a heartwarming photo of her with her Golden Retriever, Reggie, celebrating National Pet Day. The caption read, “Proof our pets have great taste too! Happy National Pet Day from HG & @diane_keaton.” This post was a collaboration with home decor brand Hudson Grace.
Tributes from the Film Community
Following her passing, numerous figures from the entertainment industry have paid tribute to Keaton. Bette Midler praised her as “brilliant, beautiful, and without guile,” highlighting her authenticity and warmth. Rosie O’Donnell emphasized Keaton’s style and grace, while Melissa Gilbert described her as a lifelong idol, noting her versatility, humor, and independence. Cynthia Nixon recalled admiring Keaton from a young age and attempting to emulate her look. Other tributes came from Steve Martin, Jane Fonda, Goldie Hawn, and Reese Witherspoon, all celebrating Keaton’s impact on film and her enduring legacy.
Legacy and Influence
Diane Keaton’s career spanned over five decades, during which she became known for her unique blend of comedic timing, emotional depth, and distinctive fashion sense. Her roles in Annie Hall and The Godfather cemented her status as a Hollywood icon. Beyond acting, she also directed, wrote memoirs, and maintained notable collaborations with filmmaker Nancy Meyers. Her influence extended into popular culture, inspiring trends such as the “coastal grandmother” aesthetic.
