Diane Keaton, the Oscar-winning actress known for her iconic roles in The Godfather and Annie Hall, has passed away at the age of 79. 

A close friend of Keaton’s described her as “one in a million,” saying she lived life on her own terms, surrounded by the people and things she loved.

“Being in the spotlight wasn’t important” to Keaton, her friend said, adding that she cherished her home and her beloved golden retriever, Reggie. 

The late actress’s dog was featured in her final Instagram post, published in April to mark National Pet Day.

Bette Midler, who starred alongside Keaton in The First Wives Club, also paid tribute to her colleague, saying, “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!”

Her family has requested privacy following her death, and further details have not been released. However, her legacy as a trendsetter and talented actress continues to inspire fans around the world.

Throughout her career, Keaton worked with renowned directors like Francis Ford Coppola and Woody Allen, and her collaborations with screenwriter Nancy Meyers resulted in some of her most memorable roles.

Keaton’s impact on Hollywood extends beyond her filmography. Her unique style and commitment to animal welfare have made her a beloved figure in popular culture.

In recent years, she has been recognised for her advocacy work, including her support for the Big Cat Public Safety Act.