Diane Keaton’s Children: Introducing Her Late Actress’ Sons, Dexter and Duke
Diane Keaton proudly embraced motherhood with two children.
On Saturday, October 11, news emerged that Keaton passed away at the age of 79. The cause of death has not been disclosed immediately, but her passing was confirmed to People by a spokesperson.
In her 50s, as a single parent, Keaton adopted two children: daughter Dexter, adopted in 1996, and son Duke, adopted in 2001. During a 2019 interview with InStyle, Diane was asked about any regrets regarding her role as a single mother.
“Never. All right?” the actress responded when inquired about dating. “Let’s get that straight. That one’s important. I haven’t been on a date in, I would say, 35 years. No dates.”
“I’ve had a lot of independence, and nobody’s telling me what to do,” she further reflected. “I had a mother who encouraged that and helped me achieve my goals. I pursued the paths I wanted. I love renovating houses, architecture, visual arts, and fashion—everything.”
Read on to learn more about Keaton’s family, particularly her children, Dexter and Duke.
Dexter Keaton
Duke, Dexter, and Diane Keaton Chelsea Lauren/Variety/Penske Media via Getty Images
Diane became a mom for the first time in her 50s when she adopted her daughter, Dexter, in 1996, shortly after her birth on December 15, 1995.
The actress has spoken fondly about her daughter in various interviews over the years. In 2012, she shared with AARP: The Magazine: “Sometimes it takes all I have to resist snuggling with Dexter. You know, at 16, being snuggly isn’t quite what you do anymore. Occasionally, I can pat her hair, and if I’m fortunate, I get a hug.”
As an adult, Dexter has generally maintained a low profile but has given her followers glimpses into her life with her mother through social media. In 2014, she posted a photo of herself and Diane on Instagram with the caption, “Happy Mother’s Day to my amazing momma! I’m so grateful to have been adopted by such a strong, beautiful, and talented woman. I can’t thank you enough for everything you’ve done for me. I love you! ❤️.”
Dexter married Jordan White in 2021, announcing their engagement in November 2020 after being together for just over a year. “This morning started with hail and ended with a diamond! I can’t believe I’m engaged! I love you, Jordan! 💍❤️,” she wrote on Instagram.
She also shared a number of wedding photos, including a family snapshot featuring herself, White, Diane, and her brother, Duke, here.
Duke Keaton
Duke, Dexter, and Diane Keaton Emma McIntyre/Getty Images for Turner
Duke was born on February 8, 2000, and Diane adopted him in 2001.
In 2005, Diane shared her insights on parenting both children in an interview with Life Magazine. “The surprising thing is how my worries have changed,” she revealed. “Before having kids, I only worried about myself, but as a parent, all you do is worry. It’s rule number one: worry quietly without letting the kids know.”
Like his sister, Duke mostly keeps a private life away from public attention and has only shared nine posts on Instagram.
