Diane Keaton, the Oscar-winning actress celebrated for her roles in iconic films such as "Annie Hall" and "The Godfather," has died at the age of 79. News of her death on October 11, 2025, has reverberated throughout Hollywood and among her legions of fans worldwide. The cause of death has now been revealed as primary bacterial pneumonia.
Keaton's family confirmed the cause of death in a statement released to the media, expressing their gratitude for the outpouring of love and support they have received. They noted that the actress passed away on October 11th at St. John's Health Center in Santa Monica, California. According to The New York Times, Keaton's death certificate indicated that the pneumonia was primary, meaning it was not caused by another underlying condition. No autopsy was performed.
News of Keaton's passing was initially met with shock, as the actress had maintained a relatively private life in recent months. A source close to the family revealed that her health had declined rapidly, and she was surrounded by her closest family members in her final months. "It was so unexpected, especially for someone with such strength and spirit," the source told People.
Diane Keaton's career spanned over five decades, leaving an indelible mark on the film industry. Born Diane Hall on January 5, 1946, in Los Angeles, she began her acting career in the late 1960s. Her breakthrough role came in 1972 when she played Kay Adams in Francis Ford Coppola's "The Godfather". However, it was her collaborations with Woody Allen that catapulted her to stardom. Her performance in "Annie Hall" (1977), a role inspired by her own life, earned her an Academy Award for Best Actress.
Keaton's versatility as an actress allowed her to excel in both comedic and dramatic roles. She starred in numerous successful films, including "Looking for Mr. Goodbar," "Manhattan Murder Mystery," "Baby Boom," "Father of the Bride," "The First Wives Club," and "Something's Gotta Give". Her unique fashion sense, often characterized by her signature hats, turtlenecks, and menswear-inspired attire, made her a style icon.
Beyond her acting career, Keaton was known for her philanthropic efforts and her love for animals. Her family has requested that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to local food banks or animal shelters in her memory, honoring her commitment to supporting the unhoused community and animal welfare.
Tributes have poured in from fellow actors and filmmakers, celebrating Keaton's talent, originality, and impact on the industry. Woody Allen, who directed Keaton in several films, stated, "I made films for just one audience: Diane Keaton". Francis Ford Coppola praised her as "the embodiment of creativity". Nancy Meyers, who worked with Keaton on multiple films, called her "a brilliant actress who constantly revealed herself to tell stories".
Diane Keaton is survived by her two adopted children, daughter Dexter and son Duke. Her legacy as a gifted actress, a style icon, and a compassionate humanitarian will continue to inspire generations to come.
