Even at the height of her fame, Diane Keaton remained defiant toward Hollywood’s expectations. During her 2014 book tour, she opened up about a painful chapter of her life, revealing her long battle with bulimia and how it shaped her sense of self. The late actress, who passed away at 79, spoke candidly about the emotional toll her eating disorder took and how it stemmed from a deep desire for approval.
Keaton shared that her struggle began in her early twenties, just as her career was taking off. What started as a way to maintain control in an image-obsessed industry quickly consumed her life.
“I felt like an outsider,” she admitted, explaining how perfectionism and insecurity fueled her disorder. “I wanted to be accepted, but I could never meet my own expectations.”
In time, therapy and self-reflection helped Keaton confront her disorder. She described this process as “painfully slow but freeing,” allowing her to rebuild her relationship with her body and identity. The actress channeled her vulnerability into her craft, often portraying characters marked by strength, eccentricity, and emotional complexity.
Friends and colleagues have since remembered Keaton not just for her Oscar-winning performances but also for her openness about mental health and resilience. Her words continue to inspire those navigating similar challenges, underscoring her belief that honesty and imperfection foster real connection.
“The best part of getting older,” she once said, “is learning to stop pretending.”
Author’s summary: Diane Keaton’s candid reflections on her battle with bulimia reveal a lifelong pursuit of self-acceptance, leaving a legacy of honesty and courage beyond her celebrated career.