Reese Witherspoon Shares How Diane Keaton Helped Her Career at Age 15

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Reese Witherspoon is honoring a late legend. 

Following the death of Diane Keaton at age 79 on October 11th, the Oscar winner shared her thoughts on why the *Annie Hall* star was so important to her, both personally and professionally.

Reese shared at the Shine Away event in Los Angeles on October 11th that Diane was a crucial early influence in her career. He explained that when he was 15 and new to the industry from Nashville, Tennessee, Diane was one of the first people to guide him.

Reese Witherspoon, known for her role in *Legally Blonde*, remembered auditioning for the 1991 film *Wildflower*, directed by Diane and featuring Patricia Arquette.

Reese recalled one of her earliest auditions, possibly her second or third. She was auditioning for a role and, after performing with a strong Southern accent, the casting director asked her who she was. Reese introduced herself as Reese Witherspoon, from Nashville, Tennessee. The casting director then questioned if the accent was genuine, asking if she was pretending.

Oh my gosh, it’s just… when Diane *knew* my accent was real, she instantly became my mentor! I’ll never forget what she said – it was so fast! She basically told me, ‘You’re hired! Hired right now, hired tomorrow, hired for as long as it takes! I have no idea who you are, but I am SO thrilled to have you on board!’ It was the most amazing moment, honestly. She just *knew*.

The Hello Sunshine founder shared that filming *Wildflower* was a formative experience, recalling a summer that deeply impacted her childhood. She also appreciated the thoughtful guidance Diane provided during that time.

Reese shared that someone kindly took her aside and gave her some important advice: ‘Stand up straight! Good posture is crucial, especially if you want to be an actress, so you need to work on it.’

Regardless of whether Reese considered her a mentor, she believed Diane had still made a mark on Hollywood.

I always admired how unique she was,” she said thoughtfully. “If you think about Diane Keaton, from *Annie Hall* to *The Godfather* and even *Something’s Gotta Give*, she’s consistently amazing and unforgettable.

Okay, so if you want to honor Diane, seriously, just *watch* one of her films! And you absolutely *have* to put together an amazing black and white outfit – something really striking. Then, take the coolest picture ever, and just… live! Be yourself, the real, unique you. I just *know* Diane would absolutely love that. Rest in peace, my queen, rest in peace.

For more stars who have paid tribute to Diane, keep reading. 

Diane’s Book Club costars each shared individual tributes for the late actress. 

The Elf actress emphasized that her late friend was “magic.”

Honestly, losing her feels…unimaginable. There will never be another person quite like her, and I feel so lucky to have called her my friend. My heart goes out to her family during this difficult time. She truly was a remarkable woman!

Jane shared on Instagram how difficult it was to accept the news of Diane’s passing. She remembered Diane as a vibrant and joyful person who always found humor in herself. Diane was incredibly creative and expressed that creativity in everything she did – from her acting and style to her books, friendships, home, and even her outlook on life. Jane emphasized how truly one-of-a-kind Diane was, and added that she was a remarkably talented actress, even if she didn’t realize it herself.

Meanwhile, Candice wrote in her post, “This is a huge loss, both personally and for all of us.”

The *Miss Congeniality* actress shared, “Diane was a remarkably talented and gifted artist, skilled in many areas, but also humble and delightfully quirky. I’m going to miss her very much.”

Diane’s Annie Hall costar penned an essay in her honor after news of her passing. 

Woody wrote in an essay for *The Free Press* that she was unlike anyone he’d ever known, or likely would ever know again. He said her face and laugh brightened up any room, and she was so captivating and beautiful that he wondered if he was falling in love with her very quickly.

Woody said the world felt sadder since Diane passed away, but he finds comfort in watching her films and remembering her wonderful laugh.

The talk show host shared a video featuring all of Diane’s appearances on her program, and revealed Diane was one of her most beloved guests.

Ellen shared on Instagram that Diane Keaton was a huge inspiration to her growing up. She loved having Diane as a guest on her show over the years, describing their conversations as surprising and always enjoyable. Ellen considers Diane Keaton to be truly unique.

Goldie spoke fondly of her *Town & Country* colleague, saying they left behind a beautiful legacy of joyful memories. She struggled to express her sadness at their passing, admitting there were no words to describe how heartbroken she felt. Knowing her friend disliked compliments, she playfully wished she could still tell them to be quiet, but acknowledged their unique spirit would be deeply missed. She insisted there will never be another person quite like them.

Goldie shared that they had planned to spend their lives together, and playfully imagined eventually living with all their female friends. While they never ended up living together, they did grow old side-by-side. She fondly added, ‘Perhaps we’ll get that chance in the next life.’ She ended with a heartfelt message to her friend: ‘Send a little magic down from above, I’m going to miss you terribly.’

Carol, the writer of “First Christmas” for Diane, shared in a statement with *People* magazine that Diane was a truly radiant person. “I adored her,” Carol said. “She had a special energy that brightened any space. She was always cheerful, enthusiastic, and loved capturing moments with her camera. She was endlessly creative and never stopped pursuing her passions.”

 

The *Saturday Night Live* comedian, who used to be an assistant for *Annie Hall* star Diane Keaton, shared a heartfelt message on Instagram, saying, “Diane, you’re the greatest, and I’ll always see your influence everywhere.”

Mandy, who acted with Diane in the movie *Because I Said So*, shared a touching post about the actress on Instagram.

Mandy shared a heartfelt tribute, saying she had the incredible opportunity to work with and even think of one of her heroes, Di, as a mother figure for a while. She described Di as a truly radiant person and a legend in her field, expressing deep sadness at her passing. It felt like Di would always be with us, captivating everyone with her talent, personality, and impeccable style. Mandy sends her love to Di’s family and friends.

It’s with a heavy heart that I share the news of Diane Keaton’s passing. She was truly one of a kind – a completely original and gifted artist. As someone who’s followed style and personality for years, I can tell you she wasn’t just a performer, she was a radiant, unforgettable presence. Her impact on American culture is immense, and her spirit will continue to inspire for generations to come. She really was a rare gem, and we’ll all miss her light.

He went on to say that her impact would only grow stronger with time, becoming a shining example of creativity and authenticity – something everyone hopes to achieve. He felt fortunate to have known her and would always cherish the memory of her influence.

He shared the sad news of Diane Keaton’s passing on Instagram, calling her a heartbreaking loss and one of the greatest figures in the entertainment world. He fondly remembered working with her on the film *And So It Goes* about twelve years ago, and sent his heartfelt sympathy to the Keaton family.

Kristin Davis shared that Diane Keaton was her childhood idol. She admired Keaton’s acting and overall style so much that, starting around age twelve, she began to copy her look. Davis grew her hair long, adopted Keaton’s menswear-inspired fashion – including hats and vests – and even wore non-prescription glasses, hoping to look more like her.

About ten years ago, I had the chance to act in a film called *Five Flights Up* with her, and it was a wonderful experience. I was quite shy around her at the time, but I felt like she liked me, and that meant the world to me.

I’ve always been a huge Diane Keaton fan, and like so many actresses, she’s a real inspiration to me. I feel so lucky to have seen her incredible talent firsthand – working with her on both *First Wives Club* and *The Family Stone* was a true privilege. She’s just one of a kind!

She shared that she’ll always treasure the memories they made on set, as well as the beautiful and unique career of the person being remembered. It’s a wonderful legacy left by a truly special individual, and she will be deeply missed.

The actor fondly recalled working with Diane Keaton when he was starting out, describing her as a uniquely talented, hilarious, and authentic person. He called her a legend, an icon, and genuinely kind.

The comedian posted a picture of an article featuring a funny exchange with Diane. Martin Short jokingly asked her, ‘Who’s sexier, me or Steve Martin?’ and she playfully responded, ‘You’re both ridiculous!’

Oh my gosh, Steve posted the *perfect* picture with the sweetest caption! He said he doesn’t know where it originally came from, but it just *totally* captures how amazing he and Diane are together! I’m seriously obsessed with them, and this post just proves why! It’s all so cute and genuine, I could cry!

Under a scene from First Wives Club, Kate wrote on social media, “We love you so much Diane.”

In a recent Instagram post, the author shared fond memories of Diane Keaton, praising her incredible range as an actress. From serious roles like Kay in The Godfather to the quirky and comedic performance in Annie Hall (for which she won an Oscar), Keaton always seemed capable of anything. The author also fondly recalled Keaton personally calling their mother after the release of her documentary, A Piece of Work, simply to express her appreciation. The author stated Keaton will be deeply missed.

She described Diane Keaton as a truly unique and inspiring person. More than just an actress, Keaton was a powerful influence who demonstrated the strength in embracing your authentic self.

From films like *Annie Hall* and *Something’s Gotta Give*, she created truly memorable characters. More than just an actress, she brought a unique joy, humor, and sense of style to everything she did. Thank you, Diane, for showing us the enduring power of being yourself.

The Gilmore Girls actress revealed a heartfelt letter she received from her Because I Said So co-star, which inspired her to write her debut book.

Oh my gosh, I still can’t believe it! Diane Keaton – *the* Diane Keaton – wrote to me years ago, back when I just fantasized about ever writing a book. I shared a picture of the actual letter on Instagram, it’s signed ‘Di’ – *Di!* Seriously, her acting has always been everything to me, a huge inspiration. But it wasn’t just that; she actually *encouraged* me, and honestly, that little bit of support completely changed my life. I still reread that letter all the time!

Elizabeth shared on Instagram that the woman was deeply admired by everyone in her field. She described her as a role model whose impact on culture, fashion, art, and especially women, was enormous. Elizabeth said she was a joy to be around and expressed her gratitude for a career that allowed her to know her.

Nia Vardalos, star of *My Big Fat Greek Wedding*, shared a heartfelt tribute on Instagram, praising Diane Keaton’s 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 has passed away. She described Keaton as incredibly talented, funny, and genuinely authentic, saying she was refreshingly free of the typical competitive spirit often found in celebrities. Bette emphasized that Keaton was always true to herself.

In an Instagram post, the actor from *Father of the Bride* shared how much he enjoyed working with Diane. He called her one-of-a-kind and said being around her was a joy, thanking her for her kindness, generosity, talent, and especially her wonderful laugh.

Oh no, not yet! It’s heartbreaking. You truly embodied what it meant to be a woman—full of emotion, humor, and a youthful spirit. You poured your heart and soul into every character you played, making them uniquely yours. I loved watching you be authentically you. Rest in peace, and sending blessings to your family. I believe you’re being welcomed home by angels.

He shared on Instagram how saddened he was by the news, writing, “Rest in peace, Diane Keaton.” He described her as a wonderfully talented actor with a kind and gracious personality, and admired her independent spirit.

I seriously can’t even with this news. Diane Keaton basically *was* my love of movies! I mean, from the quirky perfection of *Annie Hall* to the power of *The Godfather*, and then the hilariousness of *First Wives Club* and the sweetness of *Baby Boom*… even *Father of the Bride* and *Something’s Gotta Give*! Her filmography is just legendary, truly Hall of Fame stuff. I was SO lucky to actually work with her years ago on a pilot that sadly never happened, and she was even more incredible as a person – so down-to-earth, hilarious, and unbelievably talented. Honestly, this year feels like we’re losing a whole era of Hollywood, a Hollywood we’ll never get back. There’s just no replacing someone like Diane Keaton, or Gene Hackman, or Robert Redford. They were the originals, the ones who changed everything, and it feels like we’re losing a connection to that amazing time. Sending all my love to Diane’s family right now. Rest in peace, you absolute icon.

The designer shared on Instagram that Diane Keaton has passed away, expressing that even though they only knew her through her films, they will greatly miss the joy and warmth she brought to the screen.

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2025-10-14 02:48