Bette Midler is remembering her time with the late Diane Keaton.
She sat down on Bravo‘s “Watch What Happens Live with Andy Cohen” on Thursday, October 16, and shared a favorite memory of her time with Keaton — one that captures the joy, spontaneity and unmistakable spirit Keaton brought to every set.
Midler recalled working together on “The First Wives Club” (1996) as the moment she truly got to see Keaton in full form. “I think that was the most fun I ever had,” Midler said. “Those two girls, between them, I was on the floor every single day … crying with laughter.”
Midler also admitted to trying, in her everyday life, to mimic Keaton’s whimsical “giddy” style — a bit of head movement or tone — only to conclude, “I couldn’t do it.”
She praised Keaton’s uniqueness, her uninhibitedness, and the way she simply was herself, saying that many have tried to echo her mannerisms — but none captured the true spirit.
Hollywood Remembers Keaton
Keaton passed away on Oct. 11, 2025, at age 79.
Her death, attributed to pneumonia, stunned fans and colleagues alike. In the weeks since, tributes have poured in from every corner of the entertainment world, reflecting on her contributions and warmth.
Goldie Hawn echoed Midler’s reflections in her own tribute, recalling the laughter, camaraderie and shared dreams she and Keaton discussed — like growing older together with longtime friends. She wrote emotionally: “We aren’t ready to lose you … you’ve left us with a trail of fairy dust.”
Nancy Meyers, who directed Keaton in longtime collaborations such as “Something’s Gotta Give” and “Father of the Bride,” called her “a friend of almost 40 years” and praised her artistry, fearlessness, and how she lifted every project she touched.
Keanu Reeves, co-star in “Something’s Gotta Give,” remembered her as “a very special artist and person,” a tribute that underscored not only her talent but her spirit and relational presence.
Midler Posted a Heartfelt Social Media Tribute After Her Passing
Midler shared a touching tribute to Keaton after the tragic news of her passing was announced.
“The brilliant, beautiful, extraordinary Diane Keaton has died. I cannot tell you how unbearably sad this makes me,” she began.
Midler recalled just how unique Keaton was.
She added, “She was hilarious, a complete original, and completely without guile, or any of the competitiveness one would have expected from such a star. What you saw was who she was…oh, la, lala!”
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Bette Midler Reveals Her Favorite Memory of Diane Keaton to Andy Cohen