Al Pacino "Deeply Saddened" By Diane Keaton's Death in Emotional Tribute 

Following the death of Diane Keaton on Oct. 11 at the age of 79 from pneumonia, her Godfather co-star and former partner, Al Pacino, breaks his silence. He shared a heartfelt message about the late actor's impact on his life and "magnetic" presence.

In a statement to Deadline, Pacino says he was "deeply saddened" by her death and was "shaken" when he first heard the news. He was on location in Paris, shooting a film with Luc Besson at the time.

"Diane was my partner, my friend, someone who brought me happiness and on more than one occasion influenced the direction of my life. Though over thirty years has past since we were together, the memories remain vivid, and with her passing, they have returned with a force that is both painful and moving," he said.

Pacino and Keaton met while auditioning for the 1972 classic The Godfather, in which they starred as fated lovers Michael and Kay Corleone. They reprised their roles for the sequel installments and had an on-and-off-again relationship between 1971 and 1987. 

"She lived without limits, and everything she touched carried her unmistakable energy. She opened doors for others, inspired generations and embodied a once-in-a-lifetime gift that radiated through her work and her life," he added.

"On screen, she was magnetic — lightning and charm, hurricanes and tenderness. She was a wonder. Acting was her art, but it was only one of the many ways she expressed her imagination and creativity."

A source close to Pacino revealed that the actor considered Keaton the love of his life and would always regret having never taken the plunge to marry her.

"People will miss her, but more than that, they will remember her. She left a mark that cannot fade. She was unstoppable, resilient and above all, deeply human."

"I will always remember her. She could fly — and in my heart, she always will," said Pacino, ending his message.