Diane Keaton’s family has confirmed that the Oscar-winning actress died of pneumonia, following days of speculation surrounding her passing. The Hollywood icon, known for her roles in Annie Hall, The Godfather and Father of the Bride, died on 11 October at the age of 79.

In a statement shared with US media, the Keaton family expressed gratitude for the outpouring of love they have received since her death. “The Keaton family are very grateful for the extraordinary messages of love and support they have received these past few days on behalf of their beloved Diane, who passed away from pneumonia on October 11,” the family said. They added that donations to local food banks or animal shelters would be a fitting way to honour her memory, reflecting Keaton’s lifelong compassion for both, animals and the unhoused community.

Keaton’s career spanned more than five decades, beginning with her 1970 debut in Lovers and Other Strangers. Her breakthrough came two years later with The Godfather, where she played Kay Adams opposite Al Pacino. She went on to appear in Reds, Baby Boom, The First Wives Club and Something’s Gotta Give, winning the Academy Award for Best Actress for Annie Hall.