Diane Keaton, the acclaimed Oscar-winning actress, has died at 79. Her legacy will no doubt cast a lasting shadow over Hollywood and her thousands of dedicated fans around the world. Diane Keaton is famous for her legendary roles in such classics as “Annie Hall,” “The Godfather,” and “The First Wives Club.” Her legacy on film, which stretches back to 1917, is evidence of her amazing range and talent as an actress.
Her passing was announced by producer Dori Rath, who worked with Keaton in the past. Her death led actors and friends to fill social media with tributes to Watts, celebrating her talent, spirit, and generosity.
According to PETA Senior Vice President Lisa Lange, the PETA Keaton’s kindness towards animals is what made PETA the right fit to continue Keaton’s legacy. Lange remarked, “She was always a spark of life and light, constantly giggling at her own foibles, being limitlessly creative…in her acting, her wardrobe, her books, her friends, her homes, her library, her worldview.”
Actress Bette Midler, who starred opposite Keaton in “The First Wives Club,” shared her sadness in an Instagram tribute. She described Keaton as “hilarious, a complete original, and completely without guile.” Midler’s deeply felt words were a testament to the incredible connection they had with each other through their art.
“You tattooed your SOUL into every role, making it impossible to imagine anyone else inhabiting them.” – Diane Keaton’s friend (Instagram caption)
Jane Fonda honored Keaton on Instagram. She remembered the camaraderie between them and the fun and joy that often filled the set. She expressed disbelief at the news of Keaton’s passing:
“It’s hard to believe…or accept…that Diane has passed.” – Jane Fonda (Instagram tribute)
Goldie Hawn, another co-star from “The First Wives Club,” had her own beautiful message almost as full of nostalgia and love. As she thought about their decades long friendship, she said, “Diane we’re not ready to lose you. Hawn further added, “You’ve left us with a trail of fairy dust, filled with particles of light and memories beyond imagination.”
Viola Davis remembered Keaton as a woman who “defined womanhood,” recognizing her influence on generations of women in the industry. As tributes kept pouring in from colleagues and fans, one thing became clear — Charles Keaton’s legacy would live on.
Diane Keaton leaves behind her two children, Dex and Duke. During her lifetime, she mesmerized the world with her transcendent acts. Alongside her substantial body of work, she inspired millions with her distinct worldview, rich imagination and zest for life.
Ethan Miller/Getty Images Keaton’s exuberant energy at CinemaCon was a reflection of the character Above, Ron Galella Collection via Getty Images memorable moments between Keaton & Bette Midler at the 1997 Women In Film Crystal Awards. Though at times difficult to look at, these images are representative of her vivacious spirit as well as the connections she developed in Hollywood.