On ‘Watch What Happens Live,’ Sarah Paulson Reflects on Her Friendship With Diane Keaton – And The Touching Story That Captures The Late Star’s True Character

Sarah Paulson is remembering her friend and mentor Diane Keaton, who died in October at the age of 79. On a recent appearance on Watch What Happens Live With Andy Cohen, Paulson opened up about her relationship with the late great actress, calling her one of the kindest and most inspiring people she’s ever known.

Paulson, who starred with Keaton in the 1999 film The Other Sister, also shared an anecdote that demonstrated the actress’s down-to-earth nature. “Every time we would go to dinner, when the meal was over, she would get up and ask to go to the kitchen,” she said. “She would give cash to all the bus boys. Every single time. I couldn’t remember how many dinners we had together but it was every time. And it wasn’t for show, it was just because she wanted to acknowledge them. It wasn’t like, ‘We should meet the chef.’ It was always like, ‘Let’s meet the people who we don’t see when we go to dinner.’ ”

Paulson has described Keaton as a mentor to her who gave her advice and wisdom in the early years of Paulson’s career, even when Paulson “really wasn’t working much.” “We would go to dinner, and I would always lament that I wasn’t working or that my career was not where I wanted it to be,” she said. “She was always like, ‘Be patient, stay in your lane, and just do you.’”

Actresses and fans have been posting about Keaton’s wit, style, and glowing presence ever since the news of her death broke last month. As People reported, Keaton’s health had taken a rapid turn for the worse and the family decided to keep her last few months private. “It was so sudden, for someone who was so strong and full of spirit,” a friend of Keaton’s said. “She was at home with her children and grandchildren until the very end.”

For the people who loved her and for the many millions who grew up on her films, Diane Keaton will always be remembered as more than an Oscar-winning legend. Diane was a one-of-a-kind actress and a true original, someone who led with kindness, humor, and authenticity. As her friend Sarah Paulson’s memories prove, Diane’s magic was not only on-screen but in the simple acts of compassion that made her life.