A Legacy of Art, Family, and Strength

Born Diane Ladner, Ladd shortened her surname when she began working in Hollywood. From a young age, she immersed herself in the performing arts — acting, singing, and dancing — setting the foundation for a lifelong passion that would inspire generations of artists to come.

Her career began to flourish on television in the 1950s and 1960s, leading to her first major film credit in the 1966 crime drama The Wild Angels. Recalling that period in a 2019 interview with PEOPLE, she said, “It was a foggy night, and some bikers came up the mountain and threatened to tie Peter [Fonda] and another crew member to a generator… but Peter and Bruce [Dern] protected us and led us all to safety. His courage always shined through like that.”

Ladd was married to Bruce Dern from 1960 to 1969, and the two shared not only a creative bond but also a family legacy. They had two daughters — Diane Elizabeth, who tragically died at 18 months, and Laura, who went on to become an acclaimed actress in her own right, starring in films such as Jurassic Park, October Sky, and I Am Sam.

The mother-daughter duo worked together several times throughout their careers, including in Rambling Rose (1991), where both received Academy Award nominations — a rare and historic achievement in Hollywood.

Diane Ladd’s passing marks the end of an era, but her artistry, resilience, and spirit will live on through the countless performances that continue to move audiences around the world.

Rest in peace, Diane Ladd — a true legend of the screen and the heart.