Diane Keaton, the acclaimed actress known for her roles in films like "Annie Hall," passed away on Saturday at the age of 79. Emergency dispatch audio obtained by TMZ revealed the urgency of the situation as first responders were called to her home early that morning. The dispatcher reported a "person down" at Keaton's address, and she was later pronounced dead at a local hospital.
A friend of Keaton's shared with PEOPLE magazine that her health had "declined very suddenly" in recent months. "It was heartbreaking for everyone who loved her," the friend said. "It was so unexpected, especially for someone with such strength and spirit." The source noted that in her final months, Keaton was surrounded by her closest family, who chose to keep her condition private. Even longtime friends were not fully aware of her situation.
The cause of Keaton's death has not been disclosed. A family member confirmed to the Associated Press that she died in California surrounded by loved ones. In her last Instagram post from April, Keaton celebrated National Pet Day by sharing a tribute to her golden retriever, Reggie. She had introduced Reggie to her followers in 2020, expressing her affection for the dog in a playful post.
Despite her passing, Keaton had several acting projects in the works, including "The Making Of," which was set to feature notable actors such as Blake Lively and Richard Gere. Her last on-screen appearances were in 2024 alongside Kathy Bates and Eugene Levy.
Following the news of her death, many of Keaton's colleagues paid tribute to her. Director Francis Ford Coppola described her as "endlessly intelligent" and "creativity personified." Actor Leonardo DiCaprio, who starred with her in the 1996 film "Marvin's Room," called her "one of a kind" and praised her brilliance and humor.
Keaton, who never married, adopted two children in her 50s. She had notable relationships with actors Al Pacino and Warren Beatty, as well as director Woody Allen, with whom she had a long-term relationship in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Allen honored her memory in an essay, stating, "her face and laugh illuminated any space she entered."
A friend close to Pacino revealed that he regretted not marrying Keaton, saying, "Looking back, Al admits the love of his life was Diane who he’s always called, ‘an amazing woman.'"
In a 2021 interview, Keaton reflected on her iconic status, expressing her confusion about the term. "I don’t really see it that way. I live with myself and I’m hardly iconic," she said. She also shared her love for nature and her simple joys, such as walking her dog.
Keaton's philosophical musings on life and existence were also highlighted in her conversations with friends, where she pondered the meaning of life and the universe. Her legacy as a talented actress and a beloved figure in Hollywood will be remembered by many.