The Family Stone Sequel Is in the Works After Diane Keaton’s Death

The Stones are getting out the big red shovel.

Twenty years after the release of the popular movie The Family Stone, director Thomas Bezucha has announced he’s developing a sequel.

Bezucha started developing the new story before Diane Keaton, the star of the 2005 film and the actress who played Sybil, passed away in October at age 79. Her death, coming as the story was being developed, made the experience even more poignant.

He told CNN that losing Sybil had deeply affected him for months while he was working on the project, and the recent news felt like a fresh wound. He explained he’d been emotionally revisiting the place where he’d been grieving her loss for some time.

According to Bezucha, he’s only interested in making a sequel if the original cast members – including Sarah Jessica Parker, Dermot Mulroney, Claire Danes, Rachel McAdams, Luke Wilson, Elizabeth Reaser, and Craig T. Nelson – all agreed to participate.

He jokingly compared a potential reunion to the TV show The Brady Bunch, saying he wouldn’t participate unless the original actress who played Jan was involved.

Although the movie isn’t officially confirmed and no actors are committed yet, the 61-year-old filmmaker feels a strong sense of duty to do the story justice. Especially after the recent passing of Diane Keaton, he’s determined to do right by the remaining cast and is eager to further celebrate her legacy.

After Keaton died, Bezucha honored her with a post on Instagram. He shared a still from her film Heaven and wrote, “#meetyouthere #love #thanks #godspeed.”

The director of Let Him Go was among those paying tribute to the actress from Meet the Bride after her death from pneumonia. Richard Gere, who acted with Keaton in the 1977 film Looking for Mr. Goodbar, shared his memories of working with her.

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He told Today in October that it was his second movie. He reflected on working with the actress, saying he hadn’t seen her in years and the film was challenging. He described it as a very honest and sensual project, noting that both he and she were quite shy at the time.

We really looked out for each other while filming the difficult physical scenes,” the 76-year-old explained. “I’ll always remember how kind and considerate she was. I think everyone who’s worked with her feels she’s genuinely a good person.

For Keaton’s part, she couldn’t help but gush over their time together.Ā 

She jokingly admitted on the show Extra in 2023 that she used to have a crush on him, but added, “He’s great, though.”

While Bezucha is still developing The Family Stone 2, here’s more on the celebrities who honored Keaton.

He told Today in October that it was his second movie. He reflected on working with the actress, saying he hadn’t seen her in years. He described the film as challenging, very raw and sexual in nature, and noted that both she and he were quite shy at the time.

We really looked out for each other while filming the difficult physical scenes,” the 76-year-old explained. “But I’ll always remember how kind and considerate she was. I think everyone who has worked with her feels the same way – she’s genuinely a good person.”

For Keaton’s part, she couldn’t help but gush over their time together.Ā 

She jokingly admitted on the show Extra in 2023 that she used to have a crush on him, but added, ā€œHe’s great, though.ā€

While Bezucha is still developing The Family Stone 2, here’s more on the celebrities who honored Keaton.

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

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

I was absolutely heartbroken to hear about her passing. She was truly one of a kind – there will never be another person like her. I felt so lucky to call her my friend, and my heart goes out to her family during this difficult time. She was just a wonderful person!

I’m still having trouble processing the news about Diane. She truly lit up every room she entered, always finding humor in herself and approaching life with incredible creativity. It wasn’t just her acting, but everything about her – her style, her love of books, the way she connected with people, even the spaces she lived in – it was all so uniquely her. And honestly, while she’d never own up to it, she was a genuinely gifted 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 wonderfully quirky. I’m going to miss her very much.”

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

I’ll never forget meeting her – she was one of the very first people to really guide me when I started out. I was just 15, fresh from Nashville, Tennessee, and honestly, I didn’t know a soul in the industry. She took me under her wing and I’m so grateful for that early support. I remember her sharing this story back in October.

She remembered someone taking the time to give her advice on 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, dress in a stylish black and white outfit, and take a photo while pursuing their own dreams. She believed Diane would want everyone to embrace their individuality and be happy, and ended with a final farewell, wishing her peace.

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

Keanu Reeves described the artist as a “total pro” in an interview with TopMob News on October 13th. He added that she was kind, incredibly generous, and a truly one-of-a-kind individual.

Working with Jack Nicholson on the movie – which was written and directed by Nancy Meyers – was a truly special and unforgettable experience for him.

Keanu said it was wonderful seeing her and Jack Nicholson together, given their shared history and the clear affection they had for each other. He thought it was truly special.

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

In an essay for The Free Press, Woody described how she instantly lit up a room with her face and laughter. He was captivated by her charm, beauty, and almost otherworldly presence, even questioning if he could be falling in love so quickly.

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

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

As a fellow movie fan, I agree—we’ve lost a truly remarkable talent,” Nancy shared on Instagram. “She was an incredibly gifted actress who fearlessly and honestly portrayed characters and brought stories to life.

I lost a dear friend of nearly forty years,” she said. “She was like a sister to me at times, because we shared so many wonderful memories. As a filmmaker, I’ve lost a truly exceptional actress – the kind you always hope to find. We all look for someone who truly understands us, and I believe Diane and I had that special connection with each other.

Nancy remembered Diane as someone with natural star quality, saying, ā€œGetting to know and work with her truly changed my life. Thank you, Diane. I’ll miss you always.ā€

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 childhood idol. She loved having Diane on her show over the years, describing their conversations as consistently surprising and enjoyable. Ellen considers Diane to be truly unique.

Goldie was overcome with emotion, speaking of her friend and colleague. She said he left behind a beautiful legacy of light and unforgettable moments. ‘It’s so hard to say goodbye,’ she shared, ‘especially when you’re heartbroken. You always shied away from compliments, but now, I’m allowed to tell you everything—and I will! There will never be another person like you.’

Goldie shared that they had planned to spend their lives together, even imagining a future where they all lived together with their close female friends. While that particular dream didn’t come true, they did share many years as they aged. She ended with a hopeful message, saying ‘Maybe in the next life,’ and expressed how much she would miss her friend.

Carol, the writer of “First Christmas” for Diane, shared a statement with People magazine, saying, “She brought joy to everyone who knew her. I adored her – she was truly one-of-a-kind and had a way of brightening any space with her positive energy. She always found happiness in everything around her and loved capturing it through photography. She was endlessly creative and never stopped making things.”

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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 message about the actress on Instagram.

Mandy shared that she had the incredible experience of working with and becoming close to someone she deeply admired, even calling her ‘mom’ for a while. She described it as a lifelong honor to know Di, praising her as a radiant and talented person. Mandy is heartbroken by her passing, feeling as though Di’s energy and talent made her seem eternal. She sends her love to Di’s family and friends, recognizing her as one of the greatest performers of all time.

He announced the passing of the wonderful Diane Keaton on social media, saying she’ll be greatly missed. He described her as a truly original and exceptional artist – one of a kind. He believes her talent and spirit will continue to inspire for years to come.

He went on to say that her impact would only grow stronger over 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 her memory.

He shared the sad news of Diane Keaton’s passing on Instagram, calling her a heartbreaking loss and one of the industry’s greatest icons. 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 began 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 Keaton.

She shared that about ten years ago, she had the chance to act in a film called Five Flights Up with this actress, which was a lifelong dream. She admitted she was quite shy around her, but felt incredibly happy that the actress seemed to like her.

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

She shared that she’ll always treasure the memories made on set and celebrate the beautiful, unique career of a truly wonderful person. Her impact will be deeply missed.

Oh my gosh, thinking about when he worked with Diane Keaton… it just gets me! He said she was totally one of a kind – seriously brilliant and hilarious, and she just was herself, you know? No pretending. He called her a legend and an icon, which, duh, but also a genuinely kind person? I always knew it, but hearing him say it just… confirms everything. She’s amazing, and he gets it!

The comedian posted a picture of an article featuring a funny exchange with Diane. Martin Short jokingly asked her, ā€œWho’s sexier, me or Steve Martin?ā€ and she playfully responded, ā€œYou’re both idiots.ā€

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 fromĀ 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 delivering a powerful dramatic performance, like her role as Kay Corleone in The Godfather films, or being hilariously quirky as Annie Hall – a role that earned her an Oscar – her talent seemed endless. I’ll always remember how kind she was to my mom, even calling her personally after her documentary, A Piece of Work, came out just to express her appreciation. She will be deeply missed.

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

From films like Annie Hall and Something’s Gotta Give, she made every character memorable. More than just an actress, she radiated joy, had a wonderful sense of humor, and possessed a unique style. Thank you, Diane, for showing us the enduring power of being true to yourself.

I was so touched to learn that Lauren Graham was inspired to write her first book by a letter from Diane Keaton! Apparently, Diane, her co-star in ‘Because I Said So,’ wrote her a really encouraging note, and that’s what finally gave Lauren the push she needed. It’s amazing to see how much support they have for each other, and how it led to such a wonderful book!

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

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 women was immense. Elizabeth also said she was a joy to be around, and expressed her gratitude for a career that brought her the opportunity to know her.

Oh my gosh, I’m completely heartbroken! Diane Keaton… she’s just… everything! As if! That’s what Nia Vardalos just posted on Instagram, and it’s SO true. Grace, style, and talent barely even begin to cover it. She’s a comedy queen, seriously, the absolute BEST, and she raised the bar for all of us who love funny women. Rest peacefully, you sweet, hilarious legend. I’m going to miss her so much!

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 Keaton was refreshingly original and lacked the competitive spirit often seen in stars, being exactly as she appeared to the public.

In an Instagram post, the actor from Father of the Bride shared that working with Diane was a true joy and a standout moment in his career. He praised her unique personality, describing it as wonderful to be around, and expressed gratitude for her kindness, generosity, talent, and especially her infectious laughter.

Oh no, not yet! It’s heartbreaking. You truly embodied what it meant to be a woman—your roles were filled with emotion, humor, and a youthful spirit, always showing your vulnerability. You put your heart and soul into everything you did, making each character uniquely yours. It’s impossible to imagine anyone else playing those parts. I loved you so much. 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, and admired her independent nature.

He shared on Instagram how deeply saddened he was by the news, writing, “What a monumental loss.” Diane Keaton, he explained, had a huge impact on his love of 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 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 particularly marked by loss, representing the end of an era in Hollywood. He believes there will never be anyone to fill the shoes of iconic stars like Keaton, Gene Hackman, and Robert Redford, who shaped cinema for a generation. He feels their passing represents a loss of connection to a golden age of film. He concluded by sending his heartfelt condolences to Keaton’s family.

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 brightness she brought to the screen.

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2025-11-19 23:19