Lauren Graham is paying heartfelt tribute to the profound influence Diane Keaton had on her life. Two days after the iconic "Annie Hall" actress passed away at the age of 79, the "Gilmore Girls" alum offered a glimpse into a deeply personal letter she had received from her "Because I Said So" co-star—a missive that, according to Lauren, fundamentally altered the trajectory of her career.
"A few lines from a letter Diane Keaton wrote me years ago, when writing a book was merely a dream of mine," Lauren captioned her October 13 Instagram post, which featured a photograph of the typed letter signed with a simple "Di." "Her work as an actor was a constant source of inspiration for me. Her encouragement transformed my life."
So, what exactly did Diane pen to the "Parenthood" star in that cherished letter? "Please don't be a stranger. Please invite me to one of your dinners," wrote the "Family Stone" actress. "And finally... Please give yourself a hug in the morning. And remember to write your book, and don't let yourself get anxious, you big winner you." Although the letter was undated, it was likely penned over a decade ago, given that Lauren's first book was published in 2013.
Now an accomplished author with four books to her name, Lauren paid a poignant homage to Diane. But she wasn't the only one from the "Because I Said So" cast to honor their onscreen matriarch. In fact, Mandy Moore shared her own heartfelt tribute, detailing her experience working with the Oscar-winning legend.
"They say don't meet your heroes, but I got to work with one of mine and even call her 'mom' for a few months," the "This Is Us" alum wrote on Instagram on October 11. "It was an honor of a lifetime."
Mandy also reflected on the singular force she believed Diane to be—a legacy now carried on by her children, Dexter, 29, and Duke, 25. "What an incandescent human Di is and was," she continued. "I am so deeply saddened by her passing for so many reasons, but also because it felt like she'd be here forever, dazzling us with her talent and charm (and her style, come on)!!! One of the very best to ever do it."
Mandy concluded her tribute with a heartfelt message: "All my love to her children and loved ones."
