What Diane Keaton Has Said About Never Getting Married

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“Wife” was a role Diane Keaton never wanted. 

The Academy Award-winning actress passed away at 79 after a life that included well-known relationships with actors like Warren Beatty, Al Pacino, and Woody Allen (her co-star in *Annie Hall*). Despite these romances, she frequently discussed her preference for being single and never chose to get married.

In a 2019 interview with *People* magazine, Diane, who adopted her sons Dexter, 29, and Duke, 25, shared that she felt different. She explained that she believed she was unique among her peers – and perhaps even previous generations – as a woman who had always been single.

Honestly, it just broke my heart when I read that Diane Keaton felt like she wasn’t living up to what people expected of a wife – that she was missing some kind of… warmth, a ‘nurturing’ side. It’s just so sad to me that she felt that pressure, you know?

She realized she longed for a motherly presence in her life. She felt marriage wouldn’t have been right for her and was relieved it didn’t happen, believing the other person likely felt the same way.

As she put it, “I’m an oddball.”

Diane was comfortable with casual relationships, but she never wanted to get married.

She remembered a boy in high school telling her she’d make a good wife someday. Her immediate thought was, ‘I don’t want to be a wife, not at all.’

When Diane thought about her past relationships, she wasn’t thrilled with her choices, particularly when it came to dating people she worked with.

Growing up, I really wanted the approval of incredibly talented people, but now I realize that was a mistake. It’s hard to have a good relationship with someone when you’re also competing with them professionally. I wish I’d focused on finding someone who was simply a good, kind person – someone like a family man.

Ultimately, the Something’s Gotta Give actress found a life companion in her golden retriever Reggie. 

In a 2023 interview with AARP, she enthusiastically shared her affection for her dogs, saying, “I just love her!” She described dogs as wonderfully silly, and affectionately called both her dogs “big jerks” and “hilarious.”

In her later years, the actress from *Book Club* found contentment with the love she received from her pet and stopped trying to date.

You know, people are always curious about my love life, and I get asked about dating all the time. Honestly, it’s just not something I do. I can’t even recall a time someone actually *asked* me out on a date – it just doesn’t really happen for me, and I’m perfectly content with that.

Although Diane never tied the knot, many famous people cared for her deeply. Here are all the heartfelt messages honoring the iconic actress…

Nia Vardalos, star of *My Big Fat Greek Wedding*, shared a heartfelt tribute to Diane Keaton on Instagram, praising her grace, style, and talent. She described Keaton as a hilarious comedian who inspired those who followed in her footsteps, and wished her rest in peace.

Bette shared on Instagram that Diane Keaton, whom she described as brilliant, beautiful, and extraordinary, has passed away. She expressed immense sadness, praising Keaton’s humor and genuine nature. Bette noted that Keaton was refreshingly original and lacked the competitive spirit often seen in stars, being exactly as she appeared to the public. “Oh, la, lala!” she added.

In an Instagram post, actor Steve Martin shared heartfelt praise for Diane, saying working with her was a true joy and one of the best experiences of his life. He described her as uniquely wonderful and expressed gratitude for her kindness, generosity, talent, and especially her infectious laugh.

I was absolutely heartbroken to hear about her passing. She truly *defined* what it meant to be a woman on screen – she brought such depth, humor, and a beautiful vulnerability to every role. It felt like no one else *could* play those characters, because she poured her very soul into them. She was completely, unapologetically herself, and I loved her for it. Sending all my love and prayers to her family, and I believe she’s now at peace.

He shared on Instagram how saddened he was to hear about Diane Keaton’s passing, describing her as a brilliant actor with a kind and gracious spirit, and praising her independent nature. He wished her rest in peace.

He shared on Instagram how deeply saddened he was by the news, writing, “What a monumental loss.” Diane Keaton, he explained, was a huge influence on his love for film, citing her memorable roles in classics like *Annie Hall*, *The Godfather*, *First Wives Club*, *Baby Boom*, *Father of the Bride*, and *Something’s Gotta Give* as proof of her iconic and legendary career.

Josh also recalled working with Keaton years ago on a television pilot that never aired, describing her as incredibly humble, hilariously funny, and exceptionally talented.

He went on to say that this year has been marked by the loss of a bygone era of Hollywood, noting that actors like Keaton, Gene Hackman, and Robert Redford are irreplaceable. He felt their passing signified losing a connection to a golden age of film. He finished by sending his condolences to Keaton’s family during this difficult time.

The designer announced on Instagram that Diane Keaton had passed away, sharing that even though they only knew her through her films, they would greatly miss the joy and warmth she brought to the screen.

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2025-10-12 00:18