The family of Diane Keaton has disclosed that the acclaimed actress died of pneumonia, announcing the cause nearly a week after her passing on Saturday, October 11.
The 79-year-old performer's relatives shared the information while they expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support from admirers and friends.
The Oscar-winning star's death came after months of deteriorating health, according to those close to her.
Details of her illness were disclosed to People magazine, bringing clarity to the circumstances surrounding the loss of one of Hollywood's most celebrated actresses, whose career spanned more than five decades.
The Godfather star Diane Keaton died in California aged 79 | GETTYHer family has asked for privacy whilst dealing with their bereavement.
Close associates revealed that Ms Keaton's physical condition had markedly worsened in recent months.
Longtime companion Carole Bayer Sager disclosed to the publication that the actress had become "very thin" and experienced substantial weight reduction.
The decline coincided with damage to Ms Keaton's residence during the Los Angeles wildfires earlier this year.
Diane Keaton starred as Kay Adams in The Godfather trilogy | PARAMOUNT PICTURES/GETTYSager explained that the actress was forced to relocate temporarily to Palm Springs while repairs were undertaken.
"She had to go to Palm Springs because her house had been damaged inside, and they had to clean everything," Sager explained.
Upon returning from her extended stay in the desert community, friends were shocked by her transformed appearance.
"She was down there for a while, and when she came back, I was kind of stunned by how much weight she'd lost," Sager added.
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Diane Keaton's family have revealed the cause of her death
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Ms Keaton's illustrious career encompassed numerous acclaimed performances, with her portrayal of a struggling nightclub singer in Annie Hall earning her the Academy Award for Best Actress in 1977.
The film secured four Oscars in total, whilst establishing her as a fashion icon through her character's distinctive menswear-inspired wardrobe.
Her breakthrough arrived with Francis Ford Coppola's The Godfather in 1972, where she portrayed Kay Adams opposite Al Pacino.
The director, paying tribute, described her as "endlessly intelligent, so beautiful" and "creativity personified."
Diane Keaton, 79, died of pneumonia
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"Words can't express the wonder and talent of Diane Keaton," Mr Coppola stated, noting how she based her Godfather character on his wife Ellie.
Throughout her career, Ms Keaton garnered 37 awards from 63 nominations across various ceremonies, including Baftas, Golden Globes, and Emmy Awards.
Rather than flowers, Ms Keaton's relatives have suggested memorial contributions be directed towards local food banks or animal welfare organisations.
The family described such donations as a "wonderful and much appreciated tribute to her" in their statement. The actress leaves behind two children, Dexter and Duke Keaton, along with extended family members.
Her final screen appearances were in Summer Camp and Arthur's Whisky in 2024, with three additional projects in pre-production at the time of her death according to IMDb.
Ms Keaton's filmography included 74 credits, featuring memorable performances in Father of the Bride, The Family Stone and The Book Club series. She received Oscar nominations for her roles in Marvin's Room, Reds and Something's Gotta Give.