Hollywood Icon Diane Keaton Dies at 79
By Kimberly Kalusi
Legendary actress Diane Keaton, whose career spanned over five decades and helped define an era of Hollywood storytelling, has died at the age of 79, PEOPLE has confirmed.
The Oscar-winning star, celebrated for her effortless charm, wit, and timeless style, passed away surrounded by family. Keaton is survived by her two children, daughter Dexter and son Duke.
Keaton’s career began on Broadway before her breakthrough in Woody Allen’s 1977 romantic comedy Annie Hall, a role that earned her the Academy Award for Best Actress and cemented her as one of cinema’s most captivating performers. Her portrayal of the quirky yet deeply human Annie Hall redefined the modern romantic heroine and remains a cultural touchstone nearly half a century later.
Beyond Annie Hall, Keaton’s filmography is a testament to her range and longevity — from her role as Kay Adams in The Godfather trilogy, to comedic hits like The First Wives Club (1996) and Something’s Gotta Give (2003), which earned her another Oscar nomination.
Her distinct on-screen presence — often blending vulnerability with quiet strength — made her a favorite of audiences and critics alike. Off-screen, Keaton was known for her signature menswear-inspired fashion, a style that became as iconic as her performances.
“I never wanted to be ordinary,” Keaton once said in an interview. “I wanted to live a life that was interesting — and I think I did.”
In addition to acting, Keaton was an accomplished photographer, producer, and director, as well as a passionate advocate for historic preservation and the arts.
Tributes poured in across Hollywood following the news of her passing. Co-stars and fans alike remembered her as “a force of nature,” “a trailblazer,” and “the most authentically herself person to ever grace the screen.”
Her influence on generations of actors and filmmakers endures — not only through her unforgettable performances but through the unapologetic individuality that made Diane Keaton a true original.
As one admirer wrote online: “There will never be another Diane Keaton — not in film, not in fashion, not in life.”
