Al Pacino Breaks Down Remembering Diane Keaton: “She Brought Me Happiness Like No One Else Could”.NN
Al Pacino penned an emotional tribute to both his on-screen and off-screen girlfriend, Diane Keaton, after her family revealed she died of pneumonia.
The actor, 85, said he was rattled by her death and reflected on how she changed his life.
Pacino starred with Keaton in “The Godfather” trilogy and they also dated on and off for nearly 20 years.
“When I first heard the news, I was shaken,” he wrote in an essay for Deadline, noting that he was “deeply saddened” by Keaton’s death. “Diane was my partner, my friend, someone who brought me happiness and on more than one occasion influenced the direction of my life.”
“Though over thirty years has past since we were together, the memories remain vivid, and with her passing, they have returned with a force that is both painful and moving,” he continued.
The “Scent of a Woman” actor praised her “unmistakeable energy” and reflected on how she opened the door for others and served as an inspiration.
“People will miss her, but more than that, they will remember her,” he shared. “She left a mark that cannot fade. She was unstoppable, resilient and above all, deeply human.”
“I will always remember her. She could fly — and in my heart, she always will,” he concluded.
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Keaton’s family shared that the beloved actress died of pneumonia on Oct. 11 in a statement to People. She was 79 years old.
Keaton and Pacino started dating in 1974. They called it quits in 1990, after Keaton gave him an ultimatum and he refused to commit to marriage.
Pacino now wishes he had tied the knot with the late actress, a source told the Daily Mail after Keaton’s death.
“I know he will forever regret he didn’t make his move when he had the chance,” a friend of the legendary actor told the outlet. “For years after he and Diane split, Al used to say, ‘If it’s meant to be, it’s never too late for a do-over.’ But sadly, now it is.”
“Looking back, Al admits the love of his life was Diane, who he’s always called, ‘an amazing woman,’” the friend added.
The two remained supportive of one another after their breakup.
Pacino made a rare public appearance at the 45th AFI Life Achievement Award Tribute to honor Keaton in 2017.
“You’re an artist, Di,” he told her during his speech. “You’re a great artist. … I love you, forever.”
