Family confirms what caused Diane Keaton’s sudden death at 79

Diane Keaton’s family reveals she died of pneumonia, as stars including Nancy Meyers and Goldie Hawn pay tribute

Diane Keaton’s family has confirmed that the Oscar-winning actress died of pneumonia, following days of speculation surrounding her passing. The Hollywood icon, known for her roles in Annie Hall, The Godfather and Father of the Bride, died on 11 October at the age of 79.

In a statement shared with US media, the Keaton family expressed gratitude for the outpouring of love they have received since her death. “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 family said. They added that donations to local food banks or animal shelters would be a fitting way to honour her memory, reflecting Keaton’s lifelong compassion for both animals and the unhoused community.

Pneumonia, an infection that inflames the air sacs in the lungs, can be particularly dangerous for older adults or those with existing health conditions. Keaton’s passing serves as a reminder of how serious the illness can be even with modern medical care.

Keaton’s career spanned more than five decades, beginning with her 1970 debut in Lovers and Other Strangers. Her breakthrough came two years later with The Godfather, where she played Kay Adams opposite Al Pacino. She went on to appear in Reds, Baby Boom, The First Wives Club and Something’s Gotta Give, winning the Academy Award for Best Actress for Annie Hall.

Following her death, tributes have poured in from across Hollywood. Filmmaker Nancy Meyers called her “fearless” and “born to be a movie star,” adding that working with her changed her life. Goldie Hawn and Bette Midler, Keaton’s co-stars in The First Wives Club, also honoured her legacy, while Francis Ford Coppola said that “words can’t express the wonder and talent of Diane Keaton.”

Keaton is survived by her two children, Dexter and Duke, whom she adopted in the late 1990s. She never married but often spoke about the joy and fulfilment she found in motherhood.

Her passing leaves behind one of the most distinctive legacies in modern cinema, remembered for her offbeat charm, intelligence and timeless sense of style.