Diane Keaton, beloved and iconic actress, dies at 79

11 October 2025

The film world awoke on October 11 to heartbreaking news: Diane Keaton has passed away in California at age 79, a loss confirmed by her family and reported by People. Known for a career spanning more than five decades, Keaton leaves behind a legacy of unforgettable performances, bold style, and a singular artistic voice.

Born Diane Hall in Los Angeles in 1946, she adopted her mother’s maiden name of Keaton for her professional life after discovering that another Diane Hall was already listed with Actors’ Equity. She first made her mark in theater before transitioning to film, earning recognition for her distinctive presence, wit, and emotional nuance.

Her ascent in film began with supporting roles, but rapidly she became inseparable from landmark movies. She broke out with The Godfather (1972) as Kay Adams, and later cemented her star status in Woody Allen’s Annie Hall (1977), a film for which she won the Academy Award for Best Actress. Her fashion choices in Annie Hall vests, tailored suits, Oxford shirts redefined women’s style in cinema.

Over her career she embraced wide-ranging roles: the romantically spirited lead in Something’s Gotta Give, the populist charm in Father of the Bride, the fierce humor in The First Wives Club, and softer reflections in Book Club. She also explored directing and producing, expanding her creative footprint beyond acting.

Keaton’s life was not without struggle. Earlier in her career she wrestled with bulimia, a challenge she later spoke about with candor and courage, crediting therapy and patience for her recovery. Despite her fame, she often spoke about insecurities over watching her own films, a reminder that even celebrated artists carry personal vulnerability.

She never married, but she chose motherhood: she adopted two children, Dexter and Duke, building a family while navigating life in the public eye. Over the years, she remained frank about her identity, her choices, and her own journey whether about aging, creative risk, or emotional truth.

At the time of her passing, few details beyond location and age have been confirmed. Her family has asked for privacy. Across Hollywood and beyond, tributes poured in, honoring not just her roles but the way she carried herself: original, generous, fearless.

Diane Keaton’s departure marks the end of an era. She was more than a screen icon; she was a cultural force who widened the language of film, style, and what a woman on screen could express. Her performances will continue to be watched, rewatched, and reinterpreted her influence enduring, her absence deeply felt.