Diane Keaton, the Oscar-winning actor known for unforgettable roles in The Godfather and Annie Hall, has died at 79. Her daughter, Dexter Keaton White, confirmed the news on Saturday and asked for privacy on behalf of the family.

Keaton’s legacy spans six decades of acting, directing, and redefining the female lead in Hollywood. She won the Academy Award for Best Actress in Woody Allen’s 1977 rom-com Annie Hall, and went on to receive three more Oscar nominations for her performances in Reds, Marvin’s Room, and Something’s Gotta Give.

From Stage to Icon

Diane Keaton with Woody Allen in ‘Annie Hall’.

Born in Los Angeles, Keaton studied drama at Santa Ana College before moving to New York to chase her passion. She landed a role in Allen’s Broadway play Play It Again, Sam in 1968, launching a long collaboration. Her breakout on the big screen came in 1972 with roles in The Godfather and the film version of Play It Again, Sam.

Over the years, she became a staple in some of America’s most beloved films, including Father of the Bride, The First Wives Club, Something’s Gotta Give, and Book Club. Her unique charisma and authentic style endeared her to audiences and critics alike.

In addition to acting, Keaton also directed several notable projects. She helmed the 1991 TV movie Wildflower, starring a then-15-year-old Reese Witherspoon, who later referred to her as “one of my first mentors in this business”. Keaton’s directing credits also include Twin Peaks, the documentary Heaven, and the feature Hanging Up.

A Lasting Legacy

Keaton never married, though she had relationships with Woody Allen, Warren Beatty, and Al Pacino. In a 2019 interview with People, she reflected on her life choices and expressed contentment with staying single. She adopted two children, Dexter and Duke, in her 50s and often spoke proudly of motherhood.

The announcement of her passing triggered a flood of tributes. Bette Midler described her as “brilliant, beautiful and extraordinary.” Goldie Hawn, her co-star in The First Wives Club, shared heartfelt memories and called her a genius who stole the hearts of millions. Kimberly Williams Paisley, Jane Fonda, Mary Steenburgen, Candice Bergen, Meryl Streep, Sarah Jessica Parker, Viola Davis, Ben Stiller, Kate Hudson, and others echoed sentiments of love, admiration, and sorrow.

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences released a statement, calling Keaton “funny and fragile, bright and bruised,” praising her ability to fill every frame with honesty and magic.

From her sharp humor and fearless wardrobe to her unmatched performances, Diane Keaton redefined what it meant to be a leading woman in Hollywood. Her presence was electric. Her absence will be deeply felt.