Steve Martin and Other Father of the Bride Stars Respond to Diane Keaton’s Passing
The beloved stars of the classic Father of the Bride series will always cherish the memory of their matriarch, Diane Keaton.
On Saturday, October 11, the news emerged that Keaton passed away at the age of 79, although details surrounding her cause of death were not disclosed initially.
An Oscar-winning actress, Keaton, who leaves behind two children, played Nina Banks in the 1991 film Father of the Bride, starring alongside Steve Martin, Kimberly Williams-Paisley, Martin Short, and Kieran Culkin. Helmed by Charles Shyer, the story followed parents Nina and George (Martin) as they navigated the whirlwind wedding plans of their daughter Annie (Williams-Paisley) to Bryan McKenzie (George Newbern).
Father of the Bride led to a sequel, Father of the Bride Part II, released in 1995, where both Annie and Nina learned they were expecting children simultaneously. The full cast reunited, adding new faces like Florence Pugh, Ben Platt, and Alexandra Shipp, for a virtual sequel on YouTube during the pandemic in 2020.
Just two years ago, Keaton told Us Weekly that she would be more than willing to return for another episode of Father of the Bride.
“Steven and Marty have their hit television show [Only Murders in the Building] now,” Keaton commented to Us in 2022. “They’re incredible actors—talented, funny, and smart. We all know that, and what they’re doing on TV is quite impressive.”
Keep reading to see how Keaton’s Father of the Bride co-stars are paying tribute to her legacy:
Steve Martin
Martin shared a throwback from Keaton’s profile in Interview magazine, where she jokingly called both he and Short “idiots.”
In a note on Instagram, Martin mentioned that her quotes perfectly encapsulated their delightful relationship.
Williams-Paisley responded in the comments, “I can hear her saying that for sure.”
Kimberly Williams-Paisley
“Working with you, Diane, will always be among the greatest highlights of my life. You are truly unique, and it was exhilarating to be part of your world for a while,” she posted in an Instagram tribute, sharing nostalgic movie images. “Thank you for your kindness, generosity, talent, and most importantly, your laughter. 🙏🏻🕊️💔❤️❤️❤️.
George Newbern
Newbern characterized Bryan McKenzie, Annie’s fiancé, in the films.
“Diane Keaton was a luminous presence in every project, in every aspect. She was graceful, witty, and profoundly funny,” the Scandal alum expressed on Instagram. “I was incredibly fortunate to spend time with her during the Father of the Bride films. She had a rare ability to make anyone feel like they were the only person in the room.”
He added, “Her artistry was unparalleled. She will be deeply missed. She appreciated the beauty in everything. Rest in peace, dear Diane.”
Jazz Charton
Though Charton did not star in the films, her husband, Culkin, portrayed Matty, Nina and George’s son. (Culkin maintains a private social media presence.) Charton shared numerous tributes to Keaton through her Instagram Stories, including Martin’s heartfelt message.
