How Sarah Paulson Keeps the Spirit of Diane Keaton Alive Through Cherished Memories

Honoring a Cherished Friendship

Sarah Paulson has opened up about the heartfelt ways she is commemorating her late friend and co-star, Diane Keaton. Over a year after Keaton's passing, Paulson revealed that she treasures several of Keaton’s personal items, including a sweatshirt and a hat, as symbols of their enduring friendship.

In a recent episode of The Run-Through with Vogue, Paulson shared with host Nicole Phelps that she keeps a particular sweatshirt, which was present during one of their last moments together, neatly folded next to her bed. She expressed that she has no plans to wash or wear it, feeling a deep emotional connection to the garment that transcends its practical use.

Preserving the Essence of Friendship

Paulson's choice to leave the sweatshirt untouched stems from her wish to maintain a physical connection to her friend. "It’s been a year, and it’s still sitting folded exactly by the bed where it’s remained," she shared during the interview. Many who have experienced loss can relate to her feelings, as she stated, "I don’t wanna wash it. I don’t wanna wear it. I just feel like her DNA is on it, and I don’t want that to go."

In addition to the sweatshirt, Paulson also holds onto one of Keaton’s hats, which still shows remnants of the late actress’s makeup inside. She recalled how Keaton would personalize her accessories, often placing a heel guard in the back of her hats for a perfect fit. Like the sweatshirt, Paulson plans to keep the hat as a personal keepsake rather than wearing it.

A Lasting Bond on Screen and Beyond

The friendship between Paulson and Keaton began on the set of the 1999 film The Other Sister, where Keaton played the mother of Paulson’s character. Their professional relationship evolved into a genuine friendship that lasted for many years. Keaton, known for her iconic performances in films like Annie Hall and The Godfather, passed away on October 11, 2025, at the age of 79 due to pneumonia complications.

Since Keaton’s death, Paulson has consistently honored her friend’s legacy. At The Hollywood Reporter’s Women in Entertainment Gala in December 2025, she spoke openly about the emptiness left by Keaton’s absence, noting how much “crummier” the world feels without her. Furthermore, on what would have been Keaton’s 80th birthday in January 2026, Paulson shared a touching social media tribute featuring a photo of a “DK” tattoo on her wrist. In her heartfelt message, she reminisced about their shared moments, from traveling and watching films to the simple pleasure of enjoying French fries together, concluding with a promise to miss her “till the end of time.”