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OJAI, Calif. – Diane Ladd, a revered figure in Hollywood and a three-time Academy Award nominee, has passed away at the age of 89. Known for her dynamic range, Ladd captivated audiences with her portrayal of characters such as the outspoken waitress in “Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore” and the caring mother in “Wild at Heart.”
The news of Ladd’s passing was shared by her daughter, actress Laura Dern, on Monday. In a heartfelt statement, Dern revealed that her mother passed away peacefully at her home in Ojai, California, with Dern by her side. While the cause of death has not been disclosed, Dern expressed deep admiration for Ladd, whom she described as her “amazing hero” and a “profound gift of a mother.”
“She was the greatest daughter, mother, grandmother, actress, artist, and empathetic spirit that only dreams could have created,” Dern reflected. “We were blessed to have her. She is flying with her angels now.”
Diane Ladd’s career was marked by both comedic and dramatic excellence. Before making her mark in cinema, she honed her craft in television and theater. Her breakthrough came with Martin Scorsese’s 1974 film “Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore,” where she earned an Academy Award nomination for her role as Flo, a sharp-tongued and spirited character. Over the years, Ladd amassed an impressive filmography, including roles in “Chinatown,” “Primary Colors,” and two other Oscar-nominated performances in “Wild at Heart” and “Rambling Rose.”
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