Lauren Graham has shared a heartfelt tribute to her late co-star from Because I Said So, Diane Keaton, who recently passed away unexpectedly.
On Monday, October 13, Graham, 58, posted to Instagram a portion of a touching letter she received from Keaton in the years leading up to her death.
In her letter, Keaton wrote, “Please don’t be a stranger. Please invite me to one of your dinners. And finally…Please hug yourself in the morning, and remember to write your book, and don’t let yourself feel anxious, you big winner you. Love, Di,” as captured in the post.
In her caption, Graham celebrated the profound impact Keaton had on her life and reflected on their cherished friendship throughout the years.
Graham continued, “These are precious words from Diane that came when writing my own book was merely a dream,” she added. “Her presence as an actress served as an inspiration for me, and her support truly transformed my life.” (Graham has authored several books, the latest being Have I Told You This Already?, released in 2022.)
Lauren Graham, Diane Keaton. Getty Images (2)
In the movie, Keaton portrayed mother Daphne Wilder while Graham played daughter Maggie. Their co-stars included Mandy Moore, Gabriel Macht, Tom Everett Scott, Piper Perabo, Stephen Collins, Colin Ferguson, and Tony Hale.
Fans of Graham shared their condolences and fond memories of Keaton in the comments below her post.
“What a beautiful memory to hold onto ❤️,” one user commented, while another noted, “It’s the connections we make that shape our journey 🌻.”
Keaton and Graham starred together in the 2007 film about family dynamics alongside Mandy Moore, Gabriel Macht, Tom Everett Scott, Piper Perabo, Stephen Collins, Colin Ferguson, and Tony Hale.
Comments on Graham’s tribute showcased the love and respect fans held for Keaton.
“You’re so fortunate to have this treasure from her to cherish always!” remarked one fan, while another commented, “What a gift to have a friend like her, always uplifting others.”
Keaton’s passing was confirmed on Saturday, October 11, at the age of 79. While a cause of death has not yet been disclosed, a friend mentioned to People that Keaton’s health deteriorated rapidly, leaving her loved ones heartbroken.
“During her final moments, she was with her closest family, who chose to maintain a low profile about the situation,” the friend shared. “Even her long-time friends were not fully informed about the circumstances.”
After Keaton’s passing, Because I Said So co-star Mandy Moore, 41, also paid tribute to her onscreen mother through Instagram.
“I was told not to meet my heroes, but I got to collaborate with one and call her ‘mom’ for several months—a true honor,” Moore wrote alongside two pictures with Keaton on Instagram. “What a radiant spirit Di is and always will be. Her absence saddens me deeply, but it felt like she would be with us forever, illuminating our lives with her incredible talent and style! She was undoubtedly one of the legends. Sending all my love to her family and loved ones.”
Other co-stars who addressed Keaton as “Mom” onscreen also shared their respects, including Emma Roberts, who portrayed Keaton’s daughter in the 2023 film, Maybe I Do.
“The absolute best,” Roberts expressed in her Instagram Stories along with a picture of Keaton. “I was so fortunate to have worked alongside her. Love you, Diane.”
