The death of actress Diane Keaton saddened many people, especially filmmaker Woody Allen. He worked with the late actress in several films, including Annie Hall, which earned him an Oscar. A source close to Allen tells People that Allen is struggling to cope with his friend’s death.
Woody Allen and Diane Keaton’s relationship
“He is extremely distraught, surprised and upset,” the source was quoted as saying, adding, “It makes him think about his own death.” The report stated that Allen was not aware of Keaton’s declining health, saying, “Nobody found out. He was surprised.”
As People reported, Keaton, who starred in the Godfather films, worked with the 89-year-old filmmaker on several films. These included Play It Again (1972), Sam (1972), Sleeper (1973), Love and Death (1975), and the acclaimed classic, Annie Hall (1977). Their collaboration continued with Interiors (1978), Manhattan (1979), and Manhattan Murder Mystery (1993).
There was speculation that the two dated in the 1960s and that Annie Hall was inspired by their relationship.
ALSO READ: Diane Keaton’s cause of death: How did The Godfather, Annie Hall star die? ‘Sudden decline’ in health
Keaton and Allen’s friendship
While their romantic involvement was short-lived, the friendship between Woody Allen and Diane Keaton was enduring. The People quoted late-night show host Johnny Carson describing their relationship in 1975.
“I think of her as Woody’s sister. They’re both uncomfortable and withdrawn in crowds. She’s a free spirit – and her vulnerability is a good quality. She’s honest about who she is, and that’s rare,” Carson said.
Keaton also strongly supported her friend when he was targeted during the #MeToo movement in 2018 in connection with sexual abuse allegations made against him in the 1990s. In a tweet posted on January 30 that year, he wrote:
“Woody Allen is a friend of mine and I’ve always trusted him. It might be interesting to take a look at the 60 Minutes interview from 1992 and see what you think.” The tweet contained a link to a 1992 interview with Allen, where he defended himself against allegations of abuse of his daughter.
Life and career of Diane Keaton
Keaton was born in Los Angeles and became a major celebrity in the 1970s after starring in the Godfather films. This was the same decade when she won the Best Actress award at the Oscars.
According to BBC, she debuted in the 1970 film Lovers and Other Strangers. In addition to acting, he also directed, his debut in this role being the 1987 documentary Heaven.
In his personal life, Keaton chose to remain unmarried but adopted two children – a daughter named Dexter and a son named Duke. His autobiography came out in 2011 and was titled ‘Then Again’. His last role was in the 2024 film Summer Camp. He died in California on October 11 at the age of 79.
questions to ask
When did Diane Keaton die?
Keaton died on Saturday, October 11.
What was Keaton known for?
She was an Oscar-winning actress who first came into limelight through the Godfather films and had a career spanning more than five decades.
What was the nature of Keaton’s relationship with Woody Allen?
The two dated each other in the 1960s but remained friends throughout their lives.