Diane Keaton, the iconic Oscar-winning actress celebrated for her transformative role in Annie Hall, has passed away at the age of 79 in California. Her illustrious career, spanning over five decades, left an indelible mark on Hollywood, defining an era with her unique blend of charm and talent. Keaton first captivated audiences in the 1970s, making her name in The Godfather series and through her acclaimed collaborations with Woody Allen, most notably in Annie Hall, for which she earned an Academy Award for Best Actress.
Born Diane Hall in Los Angeles in 1946, she adopted her mother’s maiden name, Keaton, for her professional journey. Her breakthrough as Kay Adams in The Godfather and its sequels solidified her status. Keaton’s distinctive style, sharp wit, and comedic prowess endeared her to generations, both on and off screen. Her extensive filmography includes beloved titles such as Baby Boom, Father of the Bride, The First Wives Club, and Something’s Gotta Give, earning her another Oscar nomination.
Actor Ben Stiller paid tribute on X, writing: “Diane Keaton. One of the greatest film actors ever. An icon of style, humor and comedy. Brilliant. What a person.”
Diane Keaton. One of the greatest film actors ever. An icon of style, humor and comedy. Brilliant. What a person.
— Ben Stiller (@BenStiller) October 11, 2025
Beyond her professional achievements, Keaton was known for her relationships with prominent actors like Al Pacino and Warren Beatty, though she never married. She is survived by her two adopted children, Dexter and Duke. Even in her later years, Keaton remained remarkably active, appearing in seven films since the pandemic began and releasing a festive single, First Christmas, in December 2024.
A multifaceted artist, Keaton was also an accomplished director, photographer, and author. The American Film Institute honoured her with a lifetime achievement award in 2017, recognising her profound contributions to cinema. Her unparalleled style and artistic legacy will continue to inspire. Her family respectfully requests privacy during this difficult time.
