Over nearly six decades in Hollywood, Diane Keaton and Woody Allen shared one of the most enduring—and complicated—friendships in film history. The Annie Hall star, who died at 79 on October 11, first met Allen in the late 1960s, sparking both a personal and professional connection that would define much of her career. Together, they created some of cinema’s most memorable moments, from Play It Again, Sam to Manhattan.
According to People, a source close to Allen revealed that he was “extremely distraught and surprised” by Keaton’s death, adding that the news left him reflecting on his own mortality. Despite the ups and downs of their relationship—both on screen and off—the two remained close friends long after their romance ended. “He appreciated her very much,” the source said, noting that Allen had no idea of Keaton’s declining health before her passing.
Diane Keaton And Woody Allen’s Creative Connection
Diane Keaton’s collaboration with Allen helped shape her legacy as one of the most original talents in American cinema. Her Academy Award-winning performance in Annie Hall (1977) not only cemented her as a Hollywood icon but also captured the essence of their creative chemistry. Allen wrote the role specifically for her, drawing inspiration from her quirky personality and sense of humor—even naming the character after her real-life nickname, “Annie.”
Their artistic partnership continued through the 1970s and beyond, with hits like Sleeper, Love and Death, and Manhattan. While much of the public speculated that Annie Hall mirrored their real-life relationship, Keaton downplayed the idea, once saying, “It’s not true, but there are elements of truth in it.” The pair’s mutual admiration endured through the decades, even as both pursued separate personal and professional paths.
Standing By A Friend Through Controversy
In later years, Diane Keaton publicly supported Allen when he faced renewed scrutiny over longstanding allegations. During the #MeToo movement, she was one of the few Hollywood figures who defended him, writing in 2018, “Woody Allen is my friend, and I continue to believe him.” The actress stood by that position throughout her life, believing that their shared history and artistic bond transcended controversy.
Even Allen acknowledged how much Keaton meant to him. When she received the AFI Life Achievement Award in 2017, he made a rare public appearance to pay tribute. “Much of what I’ve accomplished in my life I owe, for sure, to her,” he said. Their friendship, rooted in respect and loyalty, remained intact until the end—a reflection of Keaton’s deep empathy and unwavering faith in the people she loved.