Richard Gere paid tribute to his late friend and longtime colleague Diane Keaton, who passed away from pneumonia on October 11 at the age of 79. Reflecting on their shared career and personal connection, Gere recalled their first film together, the intense 1977 drama Looking for Mr. Goodbar, highlighting Keaton’s gentle nature amid challenging circumstances.
Richard Gere Reflects on Early Collaboration with Diane Keaton
During his October 16 appearance on Today, Richard Gere, 76, spoke about the experience of working alongside Diane Keaton in Looking for Mr. Goodbar, an adaptation of Judith Rossner’s novel known for its raw and sexual themes. Gere described how both he and Keaton, being naturally shy, found solidarity in navigating difficult scenes.
It was the second film I made,
Richard noted.
Obviously, I think about her now. I hadn’t seen her in a long time. That was a difficult film. This very kind of raw, sexual film. She’s pretty shy and skittish. And I was, too.
Despite the movie’s dark subject, Gere emphasized their mutual support during production.
We kind of took care of each other, getting through these kind of challenging physical scenes with each other,
he continued.
But I remember just how sweet and gentle she was. I think anyone who’s ever worked with her [is] just like, ‘This is a real person.’
The two reunited in 2023 for the romantic comedy Maybe I Do, when Keaton fondly mentioned her admiration for Gere years earlier.
I had a crush on him in Looking for Mr. Goodbar,
she revealed in a January 2023 interview with Extra. She added humorously that she never
went out on a date with him.
She also said, But no, he’s great.
Other Hollywood Icons Share Their Fond Memories of Diane Keaton
Many fellow actors and filmmakers reflected on Diane Keaton’s extraordinary career and unique personality following news of her death. Steve Martin, who appeared with Keaton in the Father of the Bride series, shared a glimpse of their early days in college theatre.
This playbill is from a 1964 college production of Carousel,
Martin wrote on Instagram October 12.
Diane ‘Hall’ (Keaton) is the lead; I’m a stage hand.
Bette Midler, Keaton’s co-star in First Wives Club, expressed deep sorrow over losing her friend.
The brilliant, beautiful, extraordinary Diane Keaton has died,
Midler captioned her October 11 Instagram post.
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!
Nancy Meyers on Their Enduring Friendship and Artistic Bond
Writer-director Nancy Meyers, known for Something’s Gotta Give, where she worked closely with Keaton, shared an emotional recollection of their decades-long friendship and professional collaboration.
As a movie lover, I’m with you all—we have lost a giant,
Meyers wrote on Instagram.
A brilliant actress who time and again laid herself bare to tell our stories.
As a woman, I lost a friend of almost 40 years,
she added.
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.
Meyers praised Keaton’s natural stardom and life-changing influence.
born to be a movie star,
she said.
For me, knowing her and working with her changed my life. Thank you Di. I’ll miss you forever.
Memories from Diane Keaton’s Book Club Co-Stars
Mary Steenburgen, Jane Fonda, and Candice Bergen, all Keaton’s co-stars in Book Club, each shared heartfelt tributes emphasizing her irreplaceable presence.
Steenburgen called her friend “magic.”
There was no one, nor will there ever be, anyone like her,
she stated.
I loved her and felt blessed to be her friend. My love to her family. What a wonder she was!!!
Jane Fonda expressed disbelief and admiration for Keaton’s creativity and spirit.
It’s hard to believe…or accept…that Diane has passed,
Fonda wrote on Instagram.
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 highlighted the depth of Keaton’s artistry and impact.
This is a huge loss, both personally and for all of us.
She added,
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 a Mentor and Guiding Influence
Actress Reese Witherspoon reflected on her early career when Diane Keaton mentored her on the 1992 TV movie Wildflower, emphasizing the lessons in professionalism and presence she received from Keaton.
She was one of my first mentors in this business,
Reese said during an event in October.
I was 15 years old and I was from Nashville, Tennessee, and I didn’t know anybody.
Witherspoon recounted advice Keaton gave her about posture and confidence.
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.’
She encouraged others to honor Diane’s memory by celebrating her films and unique style.
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 the Generosity and Talent of Diane Keaton
Keanu Reeves highlighted his experience working alongside Diane Keaton in the 2003 film Something’s Gotta Give, praising her kindness and artistry.
Total pro, Keanu told E! News on October 13.
She was very nice to me. Generous, generous artist and a very special, unique person.
He treasured watching Keaton and Jack Nicholson collaborate on set.
It was cool to be able to see her and Jack Nicholson together,
he said.
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 to Diane Keaton
Woody Allen, Keaton’s co-star in the iconic Annie Hall, wrote an essay in her memory following her passing, expressing deep admiration for her charm and presence.
Unlike anyone the planet has experienced or is unlikely to ever see again, her face and laugh illuminated any space she entered,
Allen wrote.
She was so charming, so beautiful, so magical, that I questioned my sanity. I thought: ‘Could I be in love so quickly?’
He described the world as a duller place without her.
Still, there are her movies. And her great laugh still echoes in my head.
Ellen DeGeneres Celebrates Diane Keaton as an Iconic Guest
Former daytime host Ellen DeGeneres posted a collection of Diane Keaton’s appearances on her show, recalling the actress as one of her favorite guests.
Diane Keaton was an icon- a hero of mine growing up,
Ellen wrote on Instagram.
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 Poignant Farewell to Her Co-Star
Goldie Hawn shared a heartfelt message about her friendship with Keaton, expressing sorrow and fond memories.
You’ve left us with a trail of fairy dust, filled with particles of light and memories beyond imagination,
Hawn wrote.
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.
We agreed to grow old together, and one day, maybe live together with all our girlfriends,
she continued.
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 on Diane Keaton’s Creative Energy
Songwriter Carol Bayer Sager, who wrote First Christmas for Keaton, praised her spirited creativity and warmth.
She was a magic light for everyone,
Bayer Sager told People.
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.
Expressions of Loss and Admiration from Friends and Co-Stars
Saturday Night Live alum Ashley Padilla shared a touching tribute on Instagram, writing,
Diane, you are the best and I will be seeing you in everything.
Mandy Moore reflected on her personal experience working with Keaton on Because I Said So and called her a radiant presence.
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,
Moore wrote.
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 described Keaton as a unique and luminous figure in American cinema.
The magical Diane Keaton has passed,
Garcia wrote on social media.
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 the Loss of a Legendary Icon
Michael Douglas remembered Keaton as one of the most influential figures in their industry.
RIP to my friend Diane Keaton. A heartbreaking loss of one of the greatest icons in our industry,
he wrote on Instagram.
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 How Diane Keaton Inspired Her from Childhood
The Sex and the City actress described how Keaton influenced her style and aspirations from an early age.
When I was a kid, Diane Keaton was my absolute idol,
Nixon wrote.
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.
She remembered working with Keaton years later and how significant the experience was.
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 Honors Diane Keaton’s Lasting Influence
Known for her roles in iconic series and films, Sarah Jessica Parker acknowledged Keaton’s role as a trailblazer for actresses.
Diane Keaton has been a point of inspiration for countless actresses,
she wrote.
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.
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 Celebrates Diane Keaton’s Singular Talent
The acclaimed actor remembered working with Keaton early in his career.
Diane Keaton was one of a kind. Brilliant, funny, and unapologetically herself. A legend, an icon, and a truly kind human being.
Steve Martin Recalls Playful Moments with Diane Keaton
Comedian Steve Martin shared a light-hearted exchange from an interview between Keaton and Martin Short that captured the humor in their relationship.
Martin posted,
Don’t know who first posted this, but it sums up our delightful relationship with Diane.
During the interview, when asked who was sexier, Keaton replied, I mean, you’re both idiots.
Other Stars Remember Diane Keaton’s Exceptional Spirit
Kate Hudson posted a simple yet loving message under a scene from First Wives Club:
We love you so much Diane.
Melissa Rivers celebrated Keaton’s vast range of roles and personal kindness.
Diane Keaton could do anything,
she wrote.
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.
Octavia Spencer emphasized Keaton’s authenticity and timeless fashion.
Today we lost a true original,
Spencer said.
@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.
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 Diane Keaton’s Inspiration Beyond Acting
The Gilmore Girls star posted a photo of a typed letter Keaton wrote encouraging her writing dreams.
A few lines from a letter Diane Keaton wrote me years ago, when writing a book was just a dream of mine,
Graham captioned.
Her work as an actor was an inspiration to me. Her encouragement changed my life.
Elizabeth Banks Highlights Diane Keaton’s Cultural Impact
On Instagram, Elizabeth Banks acknowledged Keaton’s profound influence on multiple facets of culture.
She was beloved in her industry,
Banks said.
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 Keaton’s Grace and Humor
Grace. Style. Talent, the My Big Fat Greek Wedding actress wrote.
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.
Kimberly Williams-Paisley Celebrates Diane Keaton’s Unique Presence
The Father of the Bride star expressed gratitude for her time working with Keaton.
Diane, working with you will always be one of the highlights of my life,
she wrote.
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 Mourns a Woman Who Defined Her Roles
Viola Davis conveyed her profound grief in an emotional Instagram post.
No!! No!!! No!! God, not yet, NO!!! Man… you defined womanhood,
she noted.
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 Pays Respects to an Independent Spirit
Actor Luke Evans shared a brief tribute on Instagram.
What a very sad day. Rest in peace #dianekeaton,
he wrote.
Such a brilliant actor, a kind heart and full of graciousness with a shining independent spirit.
Josh Gad Honors Diane Keaton’s Legendary Career and Personal Warmth
Josh Gad described the impact Diane Keaton had on his love for film and his memories of working with her.
What a monumental loss,
he wrote on Instagram.
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, here resume was nothing short of iconic and hall of fame worthy.
I was very fortunate to work with her many years ago on an unproduced HBO pilot,
Gad continued.
and what I found was one of the most humble, ruthlessly funny, and unbelievably talented human beings I’ve ever come across.
He reflected on the end of an era for Hollywood with such irreplaceable stars gone.
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 the Light Diane Keaton Brought to the Screen
Fashion designer Zac Posen reflected on Keaton’s on-screen presence, expressing how much her loss is felt.
Diane Keaton is gone,
Posen wrote.
and though I only knew her through the light she gave on screen, I’ll miss that light deeply.
Diane Keaton’s passing has sparked an outpouring of love and remembrance from her colleagues, friends, and admirers across the entertainment world. Her spirit, artistry, and authenticity continue to inspire generations, leaving a lasting legacy that will keep her memory alive. As audiences revisit her many films and celebrate her unique style and warmth, Keaton’s influence remains a beacon of originality and heart in Hollywood and beyond.
