Rita Wilson joins the list of celebrities who have paid tribute to award-winning actress Diane Keaton.
On Saturday, the entertainment industry mourned the passing of the Hollywood star at the age of 79.
The heartbreaking news was confirmed by People with a family spokesperson noting that “no further details” would be shared out of respect for the actress’s loved ones, who have asked for privacy during this difficult time.
“There are no further details available at this time and her family has asked for privacy in this moment of great sadness,” the statement read.
Following the announcement, celebrities took to social media to share their heartfelt tributes honoring Diane Keaton’s extraordinary life, artistry and lasting impact.
Among those who expressed their sadness was Tom Hanks’ wife, who shared throwback photos with the Oscar-winning actress, including the first two snaps showing Keaton during her younger years.
In a lengthy message, Rita Wilson looked back on their special bond and reflected on Keaton’s warmth and positivity.
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“Diane Keaton has passed away. What is that term? A polite way of saying what we don’t want to acknowledge. The finality. Every time I met Diane she was laughing, smiling, creating, observing, reflecting. Her work as an artist is simply outstanding. She could do it all. Just watch The Godfather films and then Annie Hall. I remember being mesmerized seeing her on Johnny Carson’s Tonight Show singing in the most vulnerable way. But so pure and so honest. Her attention to detail and design was extraordinary. And her efforts to preserve architecturally significant houses and buildings was deeply appreciated. She knew craftsmanship. She was a craftsman. Weaving threads of gorgeous performances into our hearts. Even the song playing, First Christmas, Diane wrote with @jonasmyrin and @carolebayersager and performed recently,” she wrote.
Beyond celebrating her remarkable talent and spirit, the Sleepless in Seattle actress also reflected on Diane Keaton’s role as a mother, praising her as a devoted parent who fearlessly built her family on her own.
“Diane was determined to be a mom and did so, on her own, bringing Dexter and Duke into the world becoming their mother. It’s so hard to lose someone who inspired us, for many reasons, and yet, so grateful her beauty and artistry will live on. We will miss you, Diane. My prayers are with Diane’s loved ones and her children. May her memory be eternal,” the actress furthered.
Keaton, best known for her role in the award-winning movie Annie Hall, had several high-profile romances over the years but never married or desired to be a wife.
In a previous interview, she once admitted that it would not have “been a good idea for me to have married.”
“I’m really glad I didn’t and I’m sure they’re happy about it too,” she mentioned in a 2019 interview with People as she talked about her long-term relationships with fellow actors Al Pacino, Warren Beatty and Woody Allen.
Despite not getting married, she became a mother at 50 and raised her two children, daughter Dexter and son Duke, whom she welcomed through adoption.
Related: Jane Fonda Struggles to ‘Accept’ Diane Keaton’s Death