Diane Ladd, the beloved actress and three-time Academy Award nominee, passed away on November 3, 2025, at the age of 89. Her daughter, Laura Dern, shared the news in a heartfelt statement, saying, “My amazing hero and my profound gift of a mother passed with me beside her this morning at her home in Ojai, California. She was the greatest daughter, mother, grandmother, actress, artist and empathetic spirit that only dreams could have seemingly created. We were blessed to have her. She is flying with her angels now.”
Diane’s career was filled with unforgettable performances. She first gained attention on Broadway and later transitioned to movies, earning acclaim for her breakout role as Flo in Martin Scorsese’s Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore. Even though Ellen Burstyn was the lead, it was Diane who stole the show with her sharp, no-nonsense character.
She was also known for her improvisational talent and chemistry on screen, especially when acting alongside her daughter Laura Dern in films like Wild at Heart and Rambling Rose. Her dedication to the craft earned her Academy Award nominations for all three films. Diane always followed her heart—after graduating at 16, she moved to New Orleans for finishing school, turned down a law scholarship, and pursued acting instead, landing a role in Room Service at the Gallery Circle Theater.
Diane Ladd married Bruce Dern in 1960, and they had two daughters, Laura and Diane Elizabeth Dern, before parting ways in 1969. Her remarkable career and unforgettable performances have left a lasting mark on Hollywood. Diane Ladd will always be remembered for her charm, wit, and fearless approach to acting. May her soul rest in peace.
