Laura Dern took to Instagram on November 29 to celebrate what would have been her late mother Diane Ladd’s 90th birthday. “Happy birthday to my hero, the most extraordinary person I have ever known,” Dern, 58, expressed in her heartfelt tribute. She described her mother as an ever-loving artist who was dedicated to her craft and to serving others. Dern shared a nostalgic black-and-white photo of Ladd, who was a celebrated actress and a beloved figure in the family.
Ladd, who passed away at the age of 89 on November 3, inspired profound reflections from her daughter. Dern first opened up about their close bond during an appearance on Today this past April, recalling the difficult moment in 2019 when doctors gave Ladd only six months to live. Dern supported her through that trying time, recalling that there was nothing as strong as their mother-daughter connection.
Confirming Ladd’s death, Dern mourned her mother in a poignant statement to The Hollywood Reporter, proclaiming her a “profound gift” and a “brilliant” figure in the world of art and acting. According to reports, Ladd passed away at her home in Ojai, California, and her death was attributed to acute on chronic hypoxic respiratory failure and longstanding interstitial lung disease.
In addition to Dern, Ladd’s ex-husband Bruce Dern commemorated her legacy, emphasizing her talents and the respect she earned throughout her career, particularly for her role in David Lynch’s film Wild at Heart. Bruce, who was married to Ladd from 1960 to 1969, highlighted her contributions to both her family and her fellow actors. “She was a wonderful mother to our incredible daughter,” he shared, expressing gratitude for their time together.
Ladd’s life was also marked by her marriages, including to William A. Shea Jr. and later to Robert Charles Hunter, who passed away just months before her own death. Their family noted Hunter’s intellectual contributions, particularly his published works that reflected his love for Texas and his curiosity about life.
The bonds of family and the legacy left behind by Diane Ladd continue to resonate, showcasing the enduring impact she had on those who loved her and her influence in the world of acting.