Academy Award Nominee Diane Ladd Dies at 89, Cause Revealed
Actress Diane Ladd passed away on November 3, 2023, at the age of 89. The news was confirmed by her daughter, Laura Dern, who shared a heartfelt statement about her mother. Ladd’s cause of death was reported as acute on chronic hypoxic respiratory failure, as documented in her death certificate.
Health Conditions Leading to Death
According to PEOPLE, Ladd had been suffering from interstitial lung disease for several years. Additionally, esophageal dysmotility was identified as another significant contributing condition. Hypoxic respiratory failure is characterized by insufficient oxygen in the blood, often resulting from lung-related issues.
Legacy of Diane Ladd
Born Rose Diane Ladner in Laurel, Mississippi, Ladd made a memorable mark in the film industry. She became widely recognized for her breakout role as Flo in Martin Scorsese’s 1974 film “Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore.” For this performance, she received an Academy Award nomination.
Throughout her career, Ladd earned additional Oscar nominations for her roles in David Lynch’s “Wild at Heart” and Martha Coolidge’s “Rambling Rose,” both of which featured her daughter, Laura Dern.
Personal Life
Diane Ladd was married three times, including a marriage to actor Bruce Dern. She experienced two divorces, navigating complexities in her personal life while achieving significant professional success. In a 1976 interview with The New York Times, she reflected on her relationships, stating that neither of her husbands knew how to show love.
- Birth Name: Rose Diane Ladner
- Date of Birth: January 29, 1935
- Date of Death: November 3, 2023
- Notable Works:
- Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore
- Wild at Heart
- Rambling Rose
Ladd, who had enjoyed a vibrant acting career since the 1950s, appeared on numerous television shows before transitioning successfully to film. She is remembered not only for her talent but also for the deep impact she had on her family and fans alike.
Laura Dern expressed her sorrow in her tribute, highlighting Ladd as her “amazing hero” and an unparalleled gift of a mother. Her legacy continues to inspire many within the film industry and beyond.
