Richard Gere Honors “Sweet and Gentle” Costar Diane Keaton

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Richard Gere is remembering his late friend.  

The seasoned actor paid tribute to his former colleague, Diane Keaton, who passed away from pneumonia on October 11th at the age of 79. He fondly remembered their first film together, 1977’s *Looking for Mr. Goodbar*.

I was so fascinated to hear Richard talk about making *Looking for Mr. Goodbar* on *Today*. He mentioned it was only his second film, and he really opened up about working with Diane Keaton. He said they hadn’t seen each other in ages, and the movie itself was tough – very raw and sexual, which was challenging for both of them, as they were both quite shy people. Apparently, the film adapted Judith Rossner’s novel, and even though the story was dark, they really leaned on each other and supported one another throughout the whole shoot. It was lovely to hear how they got through it together.

We really supported each other while filming the difficult physical scenes,” the *Pretty Woman* actress explained. “I just remember how kind and considerate she was. I think everyone who’s worked with her would say the same – she’s genuinely a good person.”

Diane and Richard Gere worked together again in the 2023 romantic comedy *Maybe I Do*, and Diane expressed how happy she was to share the screen with him.

In an interview with *Extra* in January 2023, she admitted to having a crush on Richard Gere while watching the movie *Looking for Mr. Goodbar*, but playfully added that they never actually went on a date. She finished by saying he’s a wonderful person.

Richard isn’t the only famous person who’s honored Diane since she passed away. Steve Martin, who acted with her in the *Father of the Bride* movies, recently shared some heartwarming memories from when they both first started out, including a photo from a play they did together at Santa Ana College.

In an October 12th Instagram post, the 80-year-old shared a playbill from a 1964 college production of *Carousel*. He noted that Diane Keaton played the lead role, and he worked as a stagehand.

Just a day before, Diane Keaton’s *First Wives Club* co-star, Bette Midler, 79, shared a touching message about the Oscar-winning actress. In an Instagram post on October 11th, Midler wrote, “The brilliant, beautiful, extraordinary Diane Keaton has died.” She continued, saying she was heartbroken and described Keaton as hilarious, truly unique, and refreshingly genuine, without the usual competitive spirit you might expect from someone so famous. She emphasized that Keaton was always authentically herself, adding a playful “oh, la, lala!”

Keep reading to see more stars who have paid tribute to Diane… 

The Something’s Gotta Give writer-director paid tribute to her longtime collaborator and friend.

As a fellow movie fan, I share your sadness—we’ve lost an incredibly talented performer,” Nancy posted on Instagram. “She was a fearless and gifted actress who always brought honesty and vulnerability to her roles, helping us connect with the stories she told.

I lost a dear friend of nearly 40 years, someone who felt like a sister because of all the wonderful memories we shared. As a filmmaker, I’ve also lost a truly exceptional actress – the kind you always hope to find. We all look for people who truly understand us, and Diane and I definitely had that connection with each other.

Nancy remembered Diane as someone with natural star quality, saying, “Getting to know and work with her truly changed my life. I’ll miss you always, Di.”

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

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

She wrote a heartfelt statement saying there will never be another person like her. She cherished their friendship and expressed her love, sending condolences to the family and celebrating what a remarkable person she was.

Jane shared on Instagram how difficult it was to process the news of Diane’s passing. She described Diane as a vibrant and joyful person, always laughing at herself and expressing her creativity in everything she did – from her acting and style to her interests, home, and perspective on life. Jane emphasized how truly one-of-a-kind Diane was, and added that, despite her humility, she was a remarkably talented actress.

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 versatile artist, but she was also humble and delightfully quirky. I’m going to miss her very much.”

The actress, known for *Big Little Lies*, spoke highly of Diane, calling her a significant figure. She also fondly remembered working with Diane on the 1992 TV movie *Wildflower*, which Diane directed.

Reese shared that one of her early mentors helped guide her when she first started out. She explained that she was just 15 years old, new to the industry, and had moved to the area from Nashville, Tennessee, without knowing anyone.

She recalled someone kindly correcting her posture, saying, “Stand up straight, please. Good posture is important, especially if you want to be an actress, so you need to work on it.”

To honor Diane, she asked everyone to watch one of her films and express themselves through a striking black and white outfit. She encouraged people to take a memorable photo and pursue their passions, urging them to simply be themselves – something she believed Diane would have loved. She finished with a heartfelt farewell, wishing Diane peace.

The actor known for *The Matrix* fondly remembered working with Diane Keaton on the 2003 film *Something’s Gotta Give*.

I was so touched to hear Keanu say that about her! He told TopMob News on October 13th that she was incredibly kind to him, really generous with her talent, and just a truly special and one-of-a-kind person. It’s wonderful to see him acknowledge what a beautiful soul she is.

Working with Jack Nicholson in the movie—which was written and directed by Nancy Meyers—was a truly special experience that he’ll always remember.

Keanu added that it was special to see her and Jack Nicholson together, given their shared history and the obvious affection they had for each other. He thought it was ‘really cool’.

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

I’ll never forget the first time I met her. Woody wrote about it beautifully in *The Free Press*, saying she was unlike anyone the world had ever known, and honestly, I completely agree. She just lit up a room – her face and her laugh were captivating. She was so incredibly charming and beautiful, it honestly made me question myself. I remember thinking, could you really fall for someone so quickly? It was like something out of a dream.

Woody said the world felt less vibrant without Diane, but he finds comfort in her films and fondly remembers her wonderful laugh.

The talk show host shared a video montage of all her interviews with Diane, calling her a cherished guest and one of her favorites ever.

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

Goldie Hawn lovingly remembered her *Town & Country* co-star, saying they left behind a beautiful legacy of joyful moments and unforgettable memories. She struggled to express her sadness at their passing, admitting there were no words to describe how heartbroken she felt. Knowing they always disliked attention, she playfully wished she could still hear them tell her to be quiet, but acknowledged there would never be anyone quite like them.

Goldie shared that she and her friend had playfully planned to grow old and eventually live together, surrounded by their female friends. While that dream never came true, they did share many years together. She fondly said, ‘Perhaps we’ll get another chance in the next life,’ and expressed how much she would miss her friend.

Carol, the author of “First Christmas,” shared that Diane was a radiant presence in everyone’s lives. “I adored her,” Carol said. “She had a remarkable energy that could brighten any space. She was joyful, always looking on the bright side, and constantly capturing moments with her camera. She was a truly creative person who never stopped making things.”

 

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

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

Mandy shared that she had the incredible opportunity to work with someone she deeply admired, and even grew close enough to consider her a mother figure. She described this experience as a lifelong honor, praising the woman – Di – as a radiant and exceptionally talented person. Mandy expressed profound sadness at her passing, feeling as though Di’s vibrant spirit and charm would always be present. She sent her love and condolences to Di’s family and friends, acknowledging her as one of the greatest talents of all time.

He announced the passing of the incredibly talented Diane Keaton online, sharing that she will be greatly missed. He described her as a truly one-of-a-kind and exceptional artist – a rare and unforgettable talent whose legacy will live on.

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

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 industry. He fondly remembered working with her on the film *And So It Goes* almost 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 tried to copy her look. Davis grew her hair long, wore men’s hats and vests, and even wore non-prescription glasses, hoping to look more like the actress.

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

Diane Keaton has inspired so many actresses, and I’m definitely one of them. I was lucky enough to see her amazing talent firsthand while working with her on both *First Wives Club* and *The Family Stone*.

She shared that she’ll always treasure the memories they made while filming, as well as the beautiful and unique career of the person being remembered. It’s a wonderful tribute to 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 Martin Short. In the article, Short asked Diane, “Who’s sexier, me or Steve Martin?” and she playfully responded, “You’re both idiots.”

Steve shared a post with the caption, “I’m not sure where this originally came from, but it perfectly describes how wonderful our relationship with Diane is.”

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

Diane Keaton was incredibly versatile,” she shared on Instagram. “Whether she was playing serious characters like Kay Corleone in *The Godfather* films, or the quirky and funny Annie Hall – a role that earned her an Academy Award – her abilities seemed endless. I’ll always remember her kind, unexpected phone call to my mother after her documentary, *A Piece of Work*, came out, just to tell her how much she enjoyed it. She will be deeply missed.

She described Diane Keaton as a uniquely inspiring person. Keaton wasn’t simply an actress, she was a powerful influence, demonstrating that authenticity is the greatest strength anyone can possess.

From films like *Annie Hall* and *Something’s Gotta Give*, she created truly memorable characters. But she was 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 that being yourself is always in style.

The actress from *Gilmore Girls* received a heartfelt letter from a former co-star in *Because I Said So* that inspired her to write her debut book.

She shared a photo of a letter Diane Keaton sent her years ago, when she was first hoping to become a writer. She explained that Keaton’s acting always inspired her, and the letter’s encouraging words had a profound impact on her life.

Elizabeth shared on Instagram that the woman was deeply admired throughout her field. Everyone looked up to her, and her impact on culture, fashion, art, and especially women, was enormous. Elizabeth described her as a joy to be around and expressed her gratitude for a career that brought them together.

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 comedic icon who raised the standard for future performers, 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, saying Keaton was incredibly funny, uniquely herself, and refreshingly free of the usual competitive spirit often found in stars. Bette emphasized that Keaton was genuinely authentic – what you saw was truly who she was.

Oh my gosh, Diane! Seeing Steve write that about you on Instagram just *made* my day! He said working with you was a total highlight for him, and honestly, I totally get it! He thinks you’re one of a kind – and everyone who’s ever met you knows that’s SO true. He was just so happy to even *be around* your amazing energy! He specifically thanked you for being kind, generous, and talented, but he said your laughter was the best part. Seriously, I’m not crying, *you’re* crying! It’s just… perfection. I’m so glad they got to work together, and that he appreciates you as much as I do!

Oh no, not yet! It’s heartbreaking. You truly embodied what it means to be a woman,” she wrote on Instagram. “Your performances were filled with emotion, humor, and a youthful spirit – you poured your heart and soul into every character, making them uniquely yours. You were always authentically yourself! I loved you dearly. Rest in peace, and may your family find comfort. I believe you’re being welcomed home by angels.

He shared a heartfelt message on Instagram, calling it a “very sad day” and offering his condolences to Diane Keaton. He remembered her as a brilliant actor with a kind and gracious spirit, praising her independence.

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 movies like *Annie Hall*, *The Godfather*, *First Wives Club*, *Baby Boom*, *Father of the Bride*, and *Something’s Gotta Give* as proof of her legendary career.

Josh also recalled working with Keaton years ago on a project that never aired, describing her as incredibly down-to-earth, hilarious, and exceptionally talented.

He went on to say that this year feels marked by the loss of a classic Hollywood era, noting that stars like Keaton, Gene Hackman, and Robert Redford are irreplaceable. He believes they were true innovators who shaped cinema for a generation, and their passing feels like losing a connection to a special time. He ended by sending his condolences to Keaton’s family.

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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2025-10-16 20:23