Al Pacino Heartbroken: “Shaken” by Diane Keaton’s Death
Al Pacino honors late Diane Keaton, sharing heartfelt tribute. [Image Source: VANITYFAIR]
Al Pacino expressed deep sorrow as he commemorated Diane Keaton, who passed away recently after battling pneumonia at age 79. The two shared a complex history both on and off screen, starring together in Francis Ford Coppola’s iconic Godfather trilogy while maintaining an intermittent romantic relationship between 1974 and 1990.
Pacino’s tribute, released by Deadline on October 16, began with him admitting,
“When I first heard the news, I was shaken,”
Al Pacino wrote. He described Diane as more than just a costar, saying,
“Diane was my partner, my friend, someone who brought me happiness and on more than one occasion influenced the direction of my life.”
Although their relationship had ended more than thirty years ago, Pacino recalled the intense emotions that resurfaced following her death, explaining that
“the memories remain vivid, and with her passing, they have returned with a force that is both painful and moving.”
He lauded Keaton’s vibrant spirit, stating she
“lived without limits, and everything she touched carried her unmistakable energy.”
He also praised her presence on screen, calling her
“magnetic—lightning and charm, hurricanes and tenderness. She was a wonder.”
Further emphasizing her creativity, Pacino noted that
“Acting was her art, but it was only one of the many ways she expressed her imagination and creativity.”
He affirmed that while people mourn her loss, they will carry her memory:
“She was unstoppable, resilient and above all, deeply human. I will always remember her. She could fly—and in my heart, she always will.”
The Enduring Bond Between Keaton and Pacino
Keaton and Pacino’s relationship took root after filming The Godfather Part II, where Keaton portrayed Kay Adams and Pacino reprised his role as Michael Corleone. They collaborated across all three films in the series, intertwining their professional and personal lives. In a 2017 reflection with People, Keaton recalled,
“I was mad for him. Charming, hilarious, a nonstop talker. There was an aspect of him that was like a lost orphan, like this kind of crazy idiot savant. And oh, gorgeous!”
Despite their deep connection, their romance concluded after Keaton issued an ultimatum regarding marriage, which Pacino declined. Keaton admitted,
Image of: Al Pacino
“I worked hard on that one. I went about it in not a perfect way.”
Tributes from Industry Peers and Friends
Following the news of Diane Keaton’s death, friends, collaborators, and fellow actors shared heartfelt tributes, celebrating her legacy and impact across the film and entertainment world.
Mary Steenburgen, Jane Fonda, and Candice Bergen Honor Keaton
Diane’s co-stars from Book Club each publicly commemorated her. Mary Steenburgen described Keaton as magic and wrote,
“There was no one, nor will there ever be, anyone like her. I loved her and felt blessed to be her friend. My love to her family. What a wonder she was!!!”
Jane Fonda expressed disbelief over Keaton’s passing, posting,
“It’s hard to believe…or accept…that Diane has passed. She was always a spark of life and light, constantly giggling at her own foibles, being limitlessly creative… in her acting, her wardrobe, her books, her friends, her homes, her library, her worldview. Unique is what she was. And, though she didn’t know it or wouldn’t admit it, man she was a fine actress!”
Candice Bergen acknowledged the profound loss personally and professionally, stating,
“This is a huge loss, both personally and for all of us. Diane was a true artist – tremendously gifted and uniquely talented in so many disciplines, yet also modest and wonderfully eccentric. I will miss her terribly.”
Reese Witherspoon Remembers Her Mentor
Reese Witherspoon reflected on Diane Keaton’s influential role in her life while recalling their collaboration on the 1992 TVmovie Wildflower, which Keaton directed. At an October event, Reese highlighted Diane’s guidance, explaining,
“She was one of my first mentors in this business. I was 15 years old and I was from Nashville, Tennessee, and I didn’t know anybody.”
She added,
“She really took the time to pull me aside and say, ‘Stand up straight, OK? I want you to have good posture. If you’re gonna be an actress you got to work on your posture.’”
Closing her tribute, Reese urged everyone to honor Diane by watching her films and embracing their uniqueness:
“So for Diane, watch one of her movies. And wear like a really cool, interesting outfit, black and white. Take a cool picture and just live your dream. Just be your unique, interesting self. I think Diane would be really happy. So rest in peace, Diane.”
Keanu Reeves Recalls Working Alongside Keaton
Keanu Reeves shared fond memories of acting with Diane Keaton in the 2003 film Something’s Gotta Give. Calling her a total pro, Keanu praised her generosity and uniqueness:
“She was very nice to me. Generous, generous artist and a very special, unique person.”
Keanu also highlighted the special dynamic between Keaton and co-star Jack Nicholson, stating,
“It was cool to be able to see her and Jack Nicholson together. Just with the history they shared and the way the fondness and love they had for each other. It’s really cool.”
Woody Allen’s Personal Tribute
Woody Allen, Keaton’s co-star in Annie Hall, penned an essay honoring her after her death. He described her unique presence and charm:
“Unlike anyone the planet has experienced or is unlikely to ever see again, her face and laugh illuminated any space she entered. She was so charming, so beautiful, so magical, that I questioned my sanity. I thought: ‘Could I be in love so quickly?’”
Woody lamented the world being a drearier place without Diane and said,
“Still, there are her movies. And her great laugh still echoes in my head.”
Longtime Collaborator Nancy Meyers Honors Keaton
Nancy Meyers, writer-director of Something’s Gotta Give, paid tribute to her friend and collaborator of nearly 40 years. She expressed her grief, writing,
“As a movie lover, I’m with you all—we have lost a giant. A brilliant actress who time and again laid herself bare to tell our stories.”
Nancy emphasized their close bond:
“As a woman, I lost a friend of almost 40 years. At times over the years, she felt like a sister because we shared so many truly memorable experiences. As a filmmaker, I’ve lost a connection with an actress that one can only dream of. We all search for that someone who really gets us, right? Well, with Diane, I believe we mutually had that.”
She concluded by recognizing Diane’s destined stardom, stating,
“Born to be a movie star. For me, knowing her and working with her changed my life. Thank you Di. I’ll miss you forever.”
Television Host Ellen DeGeneres Remembers Keaton’s Charisma
Former talk show host Ellen DeGeneres shared a compilation thanking Keaton for her appearances, describing her as one of her all-time favorite guests. She said,
“Diane Keaton was an icon- a hero of mine growing up. To be able to connect with her on my show over the years was so much fun. Always a surprise. always fun. She was one of a kind.”
Goldie Hawn’s Emotional Farewell
Goldie Hawn, who acted alongside Keaton in Town & Country, expressed heartfelt emotion in her tribute. She wrote,
“You’ve left us with a trail of fairy dust, filled with particles of light and memories beyond imagination. How do we say goodbye? What words can come to mind when your heart is broken? You never liked praise, so humble, but now you can’t tell me to ‘shut up’ honey. There was, and will be, no one like you.”
Goldie recalled their shared plan, saying,
“We agreed to grow old together, and one day, maybe live together with all our girlfriends. Well, we never got to live together, but we did grow older together. Who knows… maybe in the next life. Shine your fairy dust up there, girlfriend. I’m going to miss the hell out of you.”
Carol Bayer Sager Celebrates Keaton’s Creative Spirit
Songwriter Carol Bayer Sager, who wrote First Christmas for Keaton, described her as
“a magic light for everyone. I just loved her. She was so special, she just lit up a room with her energy. She was happy and upbeat and taking photographs of everything she saw. She was completely creative; she never stopped creating.”
Ashley Padilla’s Tribute to Diane’s Influence
SNL star Ashley Padilla, who once worked as Keaton’s assistant, honored her on Instagram. She wrote,
“Diane, you are the best and I will be seeing you in everything.”
Mandy Moore’s Heartfelt Goodbye
Mandy Moore, who appeared with Keaton in Because I Said So, reflected on their time together, writing,
“They say don’t meet your heros but I got to work with one of mine and even call her ‘mom’ for a few months. An honor of a lifetime. What an incandescent human Di is and was. I am so sad she’s gone for all the reasons but also because it felt like she’d be here forever, dazzling us with her talent and charm (and her style, c’mon)!!! One of the very best to ever do it. All my love to her children and loved ones.”
Andy Garcia Honors Keaton’s Legacy
Andy Garcia posted a heartfelt reflection, saying,
“The magical Diane Keaton has passed. Diane will be deeply missed. She will continue to be an American original. A truly unique and sublime artist. A unicorn of sorts. No one like her. Her light will continue to shine forever.”
He added,
“In fact, it will shine even brighter as the years pass. A beacon of spontaneity and originality that we all strive for. I was blessed to be in her light. I will carry it with me forever.”
Michael Douglas Mourns a Friend
Michael Douglas acknowledged the loss of Diane Keaton, posting,
“RIP to my friend Diane Keaton. A heartbreaking loss of one of the greatest icons in our industry. I have so many fond memories of working with Diane on our film And So It Goes nearly twelve years ago. Sending my deepest condolences to the Keaton family during this difficult time.”
Cynthia Nixon Shares Childhood Inspiration
Sex and the City star Cynthia Nixon revealed how Keaton influenced her style and acting from a young age:
“When I was a kid, Diane Keaton was my absolute idol. I loved her acting. I loved her vibe. I loved her everything. Starting with when I was 12, I tried to dress like her. I wore my hair long. I sported men’s hats and vests and (even though my eyes were fine) I wore bookish glasses because I thought they made me look more like her.”
Recounting their later work together, she said,
“A little more than a decade ago I got to be in a movie called Five Flights Up with her and it was like a dream come true. I was very shy around her, but I think she liked me and that meant everything to me.”
Sarah Jessica Parker Reflects on Keaton’s Influence
Sarah Jessica Parker described Diane Keaton as an inspiration for many actresses, including herself. She recalled,
“Diane Keaton has been a point of inspiration for countless actresses. I include myself among those who loved and admired her. I was very privileged to witness her singular skill and talent on both First Wives Club and The Family Stone.”
She added,
“I will cherish those memories on set as well her touching, delightful and perfectly own cinematic career. Which is a gorgeous legacy of an exquisite person. She will be terribly missed.”
Leonardo DiCaprio Pays Tribute to Keaton’s Uniqueness
“Diane Keaton could do anything, From dramatic roles like Kay Corleone in The Godfather trilogy, to her hilariously offbeat portrayal of Annie Hall, which won her an Oscar, her talent seemed limitless. I also remember her lovely cold call to my mom after the release of her documentary, A Piece of Work, just to share her admiration. She will be greatly missed.”
“a true original. @diane_keaton wasn’t just an actress: she was a force. a woman who showed us that being yourself is the most powerful thing you can be.”
She acknowledged Keaton’s memorable roles and personality, adding,
“From Annie Hall to Something’s Gotta Give, she made every role unforgettable. But beyond the screen, she brought joy, laughter, and style that was all her own. Thank you, Diane, for reminding us that authenticity never goes out of fashion.”
Lauren Graham Shares a Personal Connection
Gilmore Girls star Lauren Graham revealed that Diane’s encouragement inspired her to write her first book. She posted a photo of a letter from Diane, captioning,
“A few lines from a letter Diane Keaton wrote me years ago, when writing a book was just a dream of mine. Her work as an actor was an inspiration to me. Her encouragement changed my life.”
Elizabeth Banks Highlights Keaton’s Wide Influence
Elizabeth Banks recognized Diane Keaton’s far-reaching impact, stating,
“She was beloved in her industry. Every one of us idolizes her. Her influence on culture, fashion, art and women can’t be overstated. She was a delight. I am proud I have a career that allowed me to meet her and breathe her air.”
Nia Vardalos Remembers a Comedy Legend
Nia Vardalos honored Diane by calling her Grace. Style. Talent, and said,
“Above all, a comedy gal who set the bar high for all of us who came after. Rest in peace sweet and funny Diane Keaton.”
Bette Midler Expresses Deep Sadness
Bette Midler mourned a unique spirit with an emotional tribute:
“The brilliant, beautiful, extraordinary Diane Keaton has died. I cannot tell you how unbearably sad this makes me. She was hilarious, a complete original, and completely without guile, or any of the competitiveness one would have expected from such a star. What you saw was who she was…oh, la, lala!”
Kimberly Williams-Paisley Reflects on Working with Keaton
Kimberly Williams-Paisley shared her gratitude for the experience of collaborating with Diane Keaton, writing,
“Diane, working with you will always be one of the highlights of my life. You are one of a kind, and it was thrilling to be in your orbit for a time. Thank you for your kindness, your generosity, your talent, and above all, your laughter.”
Viola Davis Honors Keaton’s Powerful Legacy
Viola Davis expressed raw emotion upon hearing of Diane’s death, stating on Instagram, No!! No!!! No!! God, not yet, NO!!! Man… you defined womanhood. She continued,
The pathos, humor, levity, your ever-present youthfulness and vulnerability — you tattooed your SOUL into every role, making it impossible to imagine anyone else inhabiting them. You were undeniably, unapologetically YOU!!! Loved you. Man… rest well. God bless your family, and I know angels are flying you home.
Luke Evans Remembers Keaton’s Kindness and Spirit
Luke Evans posted,
“What a very sad day. Rest in peace #dianekeaton. Such a brilliant actor, a kind heart and full of graciousness with a shining independent spirit.”
Josh Gad Reflects on Keaton’s Iconic Career and Character
Josh Gad marked Diane Keaton’s death as monumental, sharing,
“Diane Keaton in many ways defined my love of movies. From Annie Hall to the Godfather films, from First Wives Club to Baby Boom, from Father of the Bride to Something’s Gotta Give, her resume was nothing short of iconic and hall of fame worthy.”
He recounted their time working together on an unproduced HBO pilot, praising her humility and humor:
“What I found was one of the most humble, ruthlessly funny, and unbelievably talented human beings I’ve ever come across.”
Gad also reflected on the loss of Hollywood legends, writing,
“In many ways, this year will be defined by the loss of a Hollywood we will never again see. There simply are no replacements for a Gene Hackman or a Robert Redford or a Diane Keaton. They were the mavericks who helped redefine movies for a generation and losing them feels like also losing a chance inactive tissue to that golden age just out of reach. My heart goes out to Diane’s entire family during this impossible moment. RIP.”
Zac Posen Remembers Keaton’s Enduring Light
Fashion designer Zac Posen expressed sorrow over Diane’s loss, reflecting,
“Diane Keaton is gone, and though I only knew her through the light she gave on screen, I’ll miss that light deeply.”
Lasting Impact of Diane Keaton’s Legacy
Diane Keaton’s extraordinary career and unique personality have left a profound mark on Hollywood and beyond. From her unforgettable roles in The Godfather trilogy to Annie Hall and countless other films, her influence touched generations of actors, directors, and fans. The outpouring of tributes from colleagues such as Al Pacino, Woody Allen, Nancy Meyers, and many others underscores the deep affection and respect she inspired throughout her life.
Her fearless creativity, distinct style, and authentic self-expression continue to serve as an inspiration to aspiring artists and audiences. As tributes pour in from across the entertainment industry, Diane Keaton’s legacy endures not only in her films but in the hearts of those who knew and admired her. Her passing marks the end of an era but celebrates the lasting brilliance she brought to the world of cinema.
