Diane Keaton’s Family Reveals Cause Of Death And Thanks Fans For Support

Diane Keaton‘s family has announced the late Oscar winner’s cause of death.

The Godfather star passed away Oct. 11 at the age of 79, sending shockwaves through Hollywood as many stars and filmmakers paid tribute to the late actress. The family revealed the cause of death in a statement thanking her supporters for their praise.

“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 in the statement, per People.

The family then asked that people donate in her memory to local animal shelters and other causes she was passionate about.

“She loved her animals and she was steadfast in her support of the unhoused community, so any donations in her memory to a local food bank or an animal shelter would be a wonderful and much appreciated tribute to her,” the family’s statement continued.

People reports sources claim the actress’ health “declined very suddenly, which was heartbreaking for everyone who loved her.”

“In her final months, she was surrounded only by her closest family, who chose to keep things very private. Even longtime friends weren’t fully aware of what was happening,” the source said.

Keaton was an indelible and dynamic actress with a filmography that included The Godfather, The First Wives Club, Something’s Gotta Give, Father of the Bride, and several more.

The actress has been remembered by many for her unforgettable impact on Hollywood.

Filmmaker Nancy Meyers remembered her good friend and frequent collaborator with a touching statement.

“These past 48 hours have not been easy,” she wrote on Instagram. “Seeing all of your tributes to Diane has been a comfort. As a movie lover, I’m with you all – we have lost a giant. A brilliant actress who time and again laid herself bare to tell our stories. As a woman, I lost a friend of almost 40 years.”

“At times over those years,” Meyers wrote about the late actress. “She felt like a sister because we shared so many truly memorable experiences.”