Diane Ladd, a luminous presence on stage and screen whose performances spanned decades of American film and television, has passed away at the age of 89. Her daughter, acclaimed actress Laura Dern, shared the news, describing Ladd as a “hero” and “profound gift” of a mother.
Ladd’s storied career included three Academy Award nominations for roles in Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore, Wild at Heart, and Rambling Rose. In two of those films, she shared the screen with her daughter, Laura Dern, making them only the second parent-child duo in Oscar history to be nominated for the same movie—a distinction they share with Henry and Jane Fonda.
Born in Mississippi in 1935, Ladd began her performance journey as a “Copa Girl” at the famed Copacabana nightclub in New York City. From there, she transitioned to the stage before breaking into film and television, where her talent was quickly recognized. Her performance in Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore not only earned her an Oscar nod but also a BAFTA win. She later won a Golden Globe for her role in the television adaptation, Alice, and an Independent Spirit Award for Rambling Rose.
In her personal life, Ladd experienced both great joy and profound loss. Her marriage to actor Bruce Dern produced two daughters—one of whom, Diane Elizabeth, died tragically young. Laura Dern, their second daughter, would go on to become one of Hollywood’s most respected actresses, often crediting her mother’s strength and artistry as foundational.
Ladd’s contributions extended beyond the screen. Bruce Dern noted her decades-long service on the board of SAG, praising her for bringing a grounded actor’s voice to the table. He remembered her as “funny, clever, gracious,” and above all, “a wonderful mother.”
From her early days in showbiz to her enduring legacy as a performer and advocate, Diane Ladd’s impact was as deep as it was wide. Her artistry, spirit, and influence will be remembered for generations to come.