The tragic news of Diane Keaton's passing has left a profound impact on fans worldwide. At the age of 79, this Hollywood icon succumbed to a series of health challenges, including skin cancer and bulimia, with her condition deteriorating rapidly in the weeks leading up to her death. Her family, in a statement released on Wednesday, expressed their gratitude for the outpouring of love and support, revealing that Diane passed away from pneumonia on October 11. They suggested that donations to local food banks or animal shelters would be a fitting tribute to her legacy, reflecting her love for animals and her unwavering support for the unhoused community.
The announcement of her death followed a period of uncertainty, with the family initially stating, "there are no further details available at this time," and requesting privacy during this difficult time. TMZ later shared an audio recording, allegedly from emergency services dispatched to Diane's California home, which was later confirmed by the Los Angeles Fire Department. The team responded to a call at around 8 a.m. local time and transported her to the hospital.
A close friend described Diane's death as unexpected, occurring after a sudden decline in her health. She had put her beloved Los Angeles home up for sale in March for $29 million and had not been seen walking her dog in the neighborhood for months, indicating a deterioration in her well-being. Diane's close friend and former collaborator, Carole Bayer Sager, shared her final visit with the actress, revealing that Diane had lost a significant amount of weight. Carole also mentioned that Diane's home had been affected by the California wildfires, forcing her to seek alternative accommodation while repairs were made.
In a touching tribute, Reese Witherspoon shared her thoughts on the late star, emphasizing Diane's magical presence and her ability to light up any room with her energy. Diane Keaton's health battles, from her struggles with bulimia to her fight against cancer, have been well-documented. In her own words, she opened up about the prevalence of skin cancer in her family and her own diagnosis. She also shared her experience with bulimia, which began as a result of weight loss demands for a Broadway role. Despite these challenges, Diane rose to fame in 1972 with her role in The Godfather, for which she won an Oscar in 1978 for Annie Hall. Her notable projects also include The First Wives Club, The Family Stone, Father of the Bride, and Baby Boom.
The news of Diane Keaton's passing has sparked a wave of emotions and reflections on her remarkable career and personal struggles. Her legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire and leave a lasting impact on the industry and her fans.