Diane Keaton’s family has confirmed the beloved Oscar-winning actress died of pneumonia on October 11. She was 79.
In a statement shared with PEOPLE, her loved ones expressed their gratitude for the outpouring of support following her passing.
“The Keaton family are very grateful for the extraordinary messages of love and support they have received these past few days on behalf of their beloved Diane, who passed away from pneumonia on October 11,” the statement read.
Her family also highlighted the causes closest to Keaton’s heart, sharing, “She loved her animals and she was steadfast in her support of the unhoused community, so any donations in her memory to a local food bank or an animal shelter would be a wonderful and much appreciated tribute to her.”
PEOPLE first reported the news of Keaton’s death on October 11, noting that she passed away in California.
At the time, her family requested privacy, saying there were “no further details available” as they mourned their “moment of great sadness.”
A source close to the actress told PEOPLE that Keaton’s health had “declined very suddenly, which was heartbreaking for everyone who loved her.”
Her passing, the source added, “was so unexpected, especially for someone with such strength and spirit.”
The insider also revealed that Keaton’s final months were spent quietly with her closest family members.
“In her final months, she was surrounded only by her closest family, who chose to keep things very private. Even longtime friends weren’t fully aware of what was happening,” the source said.
Diane Keaton, born Diane Hall in Los Angeles in 1946, became one of Hollywood’s most enduring stars thanks to her distinctive charm and unforgettable performances.
She rose to fame in the 1970s with her roles in The Godfather films and her celebrated collaborations with director Woody Allen, including Annie Hall, which earned her an Academy Award for Best Actress in 1977.
Over the decades, Keaton built a remarkable filmography that included The First Wives Club, The Family Stone, Because I Said So, Finding Dory, and Poms.
She also shined in Nancy Meyers’ romantic comedies and the Book Club franchise. Beyond acting, Keaton directed several projects, including the 1987 documentary Heaven, the 2000 film Hanging Up, and an episode of Twin Peaks.
Keaton never married but built a loving family of her own, adopting two children, daughter Dexter in 1996 and son Duke in 2001.
Her death marks the loss of a Hollywood legend known not only for her talent and wit but also for her warmth and compassion.
As her family shared, honouring Diane Keaton’s legacy means celebrating her deep love for animals and her dedication to helping others, a reflection of the kind heart that defined her both on and off screen.
