Every lot sold as international demand reached record levels.
Los Angeles, June 2026. An auction featuring Diane Keaton’s personal collection raised $4.2 million eight months after the acclaimed actress died. All the available lots were sold, while Bonhams reported a record number of registrations from international buyers. The sales were organised with The Fine Art Group across New York and Los Angeles. The results demonstrated the enduring public connection with Keaton’s artistic legacy, fashion and private life.
Keaton died from primary bacterial pneumonia on October 11, 2025, at the age of 79. Her death prompted tributes from Hollywood figures including Bette Midler, Jane Fonda and Leonardo DiCaprio. Rachel McAdams also honoured her during the 2026 Academy Awards ceremony. Keaton won the Oscar for Best Actress for Annie Hall and received four nominations during her distinguished career.
The first of four planned auctions included 50 lots and generated $1.2 million. Keaton’s personal 133-page script for Annie Hall became the most contested item of the sale. After 22 minutes of bidding, it sold for $394,200 despite an original estimate of only $2,000. The document included loose pages containing material for a new ending to the celebrated film.
Clothing and accessories associated with Keaton’s distinctive style also attracted intense competition. A stainless-steel Rolex Oyster and a wide-brimmed black felt hat each sold for $20,480. A burgundy Prada leather jacket reached $16,640 after being valued at no more than $600. A woven Bottega Veneta leather bag achieved $8,960 against an initial estimate of between $200 and $300.
Buyers also competed for everyday belongings that reflected the actress’s recognisable personality. Six brown polka-dot scarves sold for $6,144, while four pairs of her characteristic thick-framed glasses reached $2,176. Black-and-white photo-booth strips created during the 1970s achieved prices of up to $23,040. Even a box containing safety pins and nail clippers was purchased for $960.
Works of art from Keaton’s collection produced several notable results during the sales. David Wojnarowicz’s photograph (Untitled) Buffalos sold for $127,500 and established an auction record for that image. A photograph by Annie Leibovitz reached $32,000, approximately ten times its original estimate. Four portraits of Keaton by prominent photographers generated a combined price of $56,320.
Bonhams plans to offer a total of 787 objects across four auctions during June. The catalogue includes original collages, designer clothing, kitchen boards, dog bowls and Keaton’s familiar black turtleneck shirts. Specialists said celebrity estate sales have expanded rapidly as admirers seek physical connections with influential public figures. Bonhams reported that this area of its business increased by 185% during the previous year.
Diane Keaton’s creative identity continues to resonate far beyond the films that defined her career.