The world of cinema has lost a true legend, and the ripple effects of Diane Keaton's passing are being felt far and wide. But here's where it gets emotional: Keanu Reeves, her co-star from the 2003 romantic comedy Something’s Gotta Give, recently paid a heartfelt tribute to Keaton, calling her “a very special artist and person” during the premiere of his new film Good Fortune in New York. Reeves, known for his thoughtful demeanor, shared with The Hollywood Reporter, “I had the wonderful opportunity to work with her, and she was very unique—just an extraordinary artist.” His words, though brief, capture the profound impact Keaton had on those who knew her.
In Something’s Gotta Give, directed by Nancy Meyers, Keaton delivered a performance so compelling that it earned her an Oscar nomination. Her portrayal of playwright Erica Barry, torn between the affections of a charming young doctor (Reeves) and a wealthy record company owner (Jack Nicholson), remains a standout in her illustrious career. And this is the part most people miss: Keaton’s ability to infuse vulnerability with humor, as Meyers recalled, was nothing short of magical. “When I needed her to cry in scene after scene, she went at it hard and then somehow made it funny,” Meyers shared on Instagram. “She would sometimes spin in a goofy circle before a take, purposely getting herself off balance, just to be fully in the moment.”
Meyers’ tribute goes beyond professional admiration; it’s a deeply personal reflection on a friendship spanning nearly four decades. “As a movie lover, we’ve lost a giant. As a woman, I’ve lost a friend—at times, she felt like a sister,” Meyers wrote. “As a filmmaker, I’ve lost a connection with an actress that one can only dream of.” Her words highlight Keaton’s fearlessness, her unmatched presence, and her infectious laugh that could brighten even the darkest days. “Knowing her and working with her changed my life,” Meyers added. “Thank you, Di. I’ll miss you forever.”
But here's where it gets controversial: While Keaton’s legacy is undeniable, her approach to acting—often described as raw and unfiltered—wasn’t always universally appreciated. Some critics argued that her performances could be too intense, blurring the line between character and self. Yet, it’s precisely this authenticity that made her a beloved figure in Hollywood. Was her method a strength or a liability? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments.
In honor of Keaton’s remarkable career, AMC Theatres is bringing back two of her iconic films, Annie Hall and Something’s Gotta Give, to 100 cinemas across the U.S. It’s a fitting tribute to an actress who gave so much to the world of film. As we reflect on her legacy, one thing is clear: Diane Keaton wasn’t just a movie star—she was a force of nature, a storyteller who bared her soul on screen, and a friend who left an indelible mark on everyone she met. What’s your favorite Diane Keaton moment? Share it below—we’re all ears!
