Diane Ladd, Veteran Film and TV Star, Passes Away at Her California Home at 89

Acclaimed actress Diane Ladd, a three-time Academy Award nominee known for her memorable performances in film and television, has died at the age of 89. Her daughter, Laura Dern, confirmed that Ladd passed away peacefully at her home in Ojai, California.

Ladd’s death marks the loss of one of Hollywood’s most respected and enduring talents. Over a career spanning more than six decades, she became known for her depth, authenticity, and versatility in both dramatic and comedic roles.

Born in Meridian, Mississippi, in 1935, Diane Ladd built a career that earned her critical acclaim and respect from audiences and peers alike. She received three Academy Award nominations for Best Supporting Actress for her performances in Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore (1974), Wild at Heart (1990), and Rambling Rose (1991).

Her work in Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore, directed by Martin Scorsese, established her as a major force in film and opened the door to a series of acclaimed roles throughout the 1980s and 1990s. She also appeared alongside her daughter Laura Dern in several projects, including Wild at Heart and Rambling Rose, further cementing their place as one of Hollywood’s most celebrated mother-daughter duos.

In addition to her film work, Ladd made numerous appearances on television. She earned an Emmy nomination for her performance in Alice, the CBS sitcom inspired by the 1974 film, and appeared in popular series including Chesapeake Shores, Touched by an Angel, and Grace Under Fire.

Throughout her career, Diane Ladd was recognized not only for her acting talent but also for her contributions to the entertainment industry. She received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and was a member of the Actors Studio, where she trained with some of the most influential figures in American theater and film.

Her collaborations with directors such as Martin Scorsese and David Lynch showcased her ability to inhabit complex, emotionally rich characters that resonated with audiences across generations.

She is survived by her daughter, actress Laura Dern, and other family members.