Richard Gere Honors “Sweet and Gentle” Costar Diane Keaton After Her Death

Richard Gere is mourning the loss of his dear friend and former costar Diane Keaton, just days after the Oscar-winning actress died of pneumonia at age 79.

During an emotional appearance on Today on October 16, the 76-year-old actor reflected on their very first collaboration — the 1977 film Looking for Mr. Goodbar — and the deep respect he’s carried for her ever since.

“It was the second film I made,” Gere recalled. “Obviously, I think about her now. I hadn’t seen her in a long time. That was a difficult film. This very kind of raw, sexual film. She’s pretty shy and skittish. And I was, too.”

A Difficult Film, A Gentle Soul

Looking for Mr. Goodbar — adapted from Judith Rossner’s novel — was a dark, provocative story that demanded vulnerability and courage from both actors.
Despite the intensity of the material, Gere said that he and Keaton formed a quiet bond built on mutual respect and care.

“We kind of took care of each other,” he said. “Getting through these kind of challenging physical scenes with each other. But I remember just how sweet and gentle she was. I think anyone who’s ever worked with her [is] just like, ‘This is a real person.’”

Even in the toughest moments of filming, Gere remembers Keaton’s humility and humanity — qualities that defined her both on-screen and off.

Reuniting Decades Later

More than four decades after Goodbar, Gere and Keaton reunited for the 2023 romantic comedy Maybe I Do, alongside Susan Sarandon and William H. Macy.
It was a full-circle moment — two icons returning to the screen together, this time in a lighter, warmer story about love, second chances, and long relationships.

When asked about working with Gere again, Keaton couldn’t hide her fondness for her old costar.

“I had a crush on him in Looking for Mr. Goodbar,” she told Extra in January 2023, laughing. “I never went out on a date with him. But no, he’s great.”

Her humor and charm — always effortlessly natural — shone through even in that moment.

 Remembering a Legend

Diane Keaton’s passing on October 11 left a deep void in Hollywood. Known for her unmistakable style, warmth, and fearless individuality, she won hearts across generations — from Annie Hall to Something’s Gotta Give and The Family Stone.

For Richard Gere, her loss is both personal and profound — a reminder of how deeply two artists can connect through the shared experience of storytelling.

“She was sweet and gentle,” Gere said simply. “A real person.”

And that’s how fans — and friends — will always remember her. 🌤️❤️