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Reliance Power CFO Arrested; Company Claims It’s a “Victim of Fraud,” Distances Anil Ambani from Case

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Mumbai: Reliance Power has issued a strong statement following the arrest of its Chief Financial Officer (CFO), Ashok Kumar Pal, by the Enforcement Directorate (ED), asserting that the company and its subsidiaries are “victims of fraud, forgery, and cheating conspiracy.” The company has also moved to distance industrialist Anil Ambani from the controversy, clarifying he has not been on the company’s board for over three and a half years and has no connection to the matter.

Ashok Kumar Pal, who also served as an Executive Director, was arrested on the night of October 10 under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) in connection with an alleged fake bank guarantee of ₹68.2 crore. A court on Saturday remanded him to two days of ED custody.

In a regulatory filing, Reliance Power stated, “We wish to clarify on the media reports that Anil D. Ambani is not on the Board of Reliance Power Limited for more than 3.5 years and is not concerned with this matter in any manner.” The company reiterated its stance that it “acted bonafidely” and is a victim in the case.

A Twist in the Tale: Arrested CFO Claims He Was the Original Complainant

In a surprising turn of events, Ashok Kumar Pal has resigned from his position following the arrest, maintaining his innocence. In a communication to the company’s board, Pal claimed that he was the original complainant in the First Information Report (FIR) that led to the current ED investigation.

“I was the original complainant in FIR… registered by EOW, New Delhi. On the basis of the said FIR, Enforcement Directorate had registered an ECIR… wherein I have been arrested,” Pal’s statement read. He added that he is tendering his resignation due to the pending investigation but maintains his innocence and is not involved in any wrongdoing.

The ED’s probe is linked to a bogus bank guarantee allegedly submitted to the Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI) on behalf of a Reliance Power subsidiary.

Mohanlal Asks Priyadarshan: “What About The 100th Film?”

KOCHI: Malayalam cinema icon Mohanlal has opened up about his enduring friendship and professional bond with director Priyadarshan, revealing that he recently prodded the filmmaker about their much-anticipated 100th film collaboration.

​In an exclusive interview with Times of India Assistant Editor Sai Kiran, the superstar shared private moments from his life, focusing on his relationships with key figures in the industry, including Priyadarshan, Sreenivasan, and Sathyan Anthikad.

The Unique 100th Film Record

​Speaking about his plans with Priyadarshan, with whom he shares the rare distinction of having worked in the director’s debut film (Poochakkoru Mookkuthi, 1984), Mohanlal expressed his eagerness to be the lead in the landmark 100th venture.

​”I hope to be part of his 100th film,” Mohanlal said. “I even asked him recently, ‘What about your 100th film? Aren’t we doing it?'”

​He emphasized the historical significance of the potential collaboration, stating, “If it were to happen, it would be unique if the same actor-director duo did both the first and the 100th. It would be a record.”

​Mohanlal also confirmed that he is making a small appearance in a Hindi film Priyadarshan is currently shooting. A shot from one of Mohanlal’s Malayalam films, Aryan, was even reused in an earlier Hindi film of Priyadarshan’s.

On Relationships and ‘Survival Mechanism’

​The actor also provided insight into his approach to relationships in the industry, including past differences.

Priyadarshan: “With Priyadarshan too, we’ve had plenty of differences. But these become issues only if I allow them to. Why waste energy? It’s not escapism—it’s a survival mechanism.”

Sreenivasan: “Once Sreenivasan came and admitted he shouldn’t have spoken the way he did. I told him, ‘Let’s not talk about it.'”

Sathyan Anthikad: Regarding the veteran director, Mohanlal recalled, “I only learned about a misunderstanding he had about me 10 years later (laughs).”

Missing Co-Stars

​Mohanlal became emotional when speaking about his beloved co-stars. “Very much. When I watch my old films, I miss them deeply,” he said.

​He spoke about his recent meeting with Jagathy Sreekumar in Thiruvananthapuram. “I don’t know if he fully realizes, but he still smiles when I tell him our old private jokes.” He also fondly remembered the late Innocent, recalling, “He once made a funny song about me which we later used in No. 20 Madras Mail. Those were beautiful times.”

Kerala Lottery Result Today 12.10.2025 Announced: Samrudhi SM-24 First Prize of ₹1 Crore Won by Ticket MW 796935; Check Full Winners List

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Thiruvananthapuram: The Kerala State Lottery Department has officially announced the results for the Samrudhi SM-24 lottery draw today, Sunday, October 12, 2025. The much-awaited draw, held at Gorky Bhavan near Bakery Junction in Thiruvananthapuram at 3 PM, revealed that the ticket holder with the number MW 796935 has won the coveted first prize of ₹1 crore.

The second prize of ₹25 lakh was secured by ticket number MO 824488, while the third prize of ₹5 lakh went to ticket number MT 442422. A consolation prize of ₹5,000 has also been awarded to tickets with the same number as the first prize winner but from different series.

Winners are advised to verify their winning numbers with the results published in the Kerala Government Gazette and surrender their winning tickets within 30 days of the draw.

Here is the complete list of winning numbers for the Samrudhi SM-24 draw:

1st Prize (₹1 Crore):

  • MW 796935

Consolation Prize (₹5,000):

  • (Awarded to all other series with the number 796935)

2nd Prize (₹25 Lakhs):

  • MO 824488

3rd Prize (₹5 Lakhs):

  • MT 442422

4th Prize (₹5,000):

  • 0172, 0677, 0830, 1559, 1905, 2036, 3277, 4640, 4892, 5973, 7246, 7344, 7850, 8014, 8104, 8326, 8535, 8805, 9108

5th Prize (₹2,000):

  • 1964, 2438, 3689, 4139, 5172, 5228

6th Prize (₹1,000):

  • 0344, 0833, 1137, 1260, 1356, 1930, 2399, 2547, 2751, 3014, 3621, 4849, 5038, 6114, 6416, 6501, 7041, 7422, 7811, 7906, 8046, 8047, 8067, 8649, 9238

7th Prize (₹500):

  • 0489, 0638, 0852, 1034, 1071, 1153, 1166, 1368, 1402, 1546, 1744, 1759, 2048, 2172, 2233, 2276, 2303, 2447, 2489, 2491, 3025, 3107, 3199, 3265, 3364, 3411, 3620, 3643, 3683, 3705, 3872, 3876, 3893, 4061, 4084, 4245, 4338, 4366, 4629, 4637, 4694, 4741, 4745, 4804, 4885, 4910, 4947, 5032, 5201, 5265, 5274, 5342, 5495, 5719, 5770, 5861, 5945, 6126, 6210, 6294, 6408, 6454, 6639, 6837, 6849, 6879, 7830, 7942, 8032, 8303, 8407, 8451, 8454, 8772, 8821, 8939

8th Prize (₹200):

  • 0071, 0412, 0418, 0438, 0463, 0495, 0522, 0841, 0877, 0920, 0940, 0948, 1401, 1509, 1514, 1557, 1702, 1715, 1809, 1820, 1823, 1912, 2221, 2247, 2507, 2592, 2749, 3487, 3555, 3842, 3912, 3934, 3969, 4000, 4007, 4102, 4119, 4176, 4460, 4646, 4822, 5013, 5145, 5161, 5298, 5373, 5464, 5720, 5886, 5888, 6050, 6074, 6206, 6258, 6462, 6511, 6549, 6550, 6557, 6745, 6807, 6846, 6894, 6921, 6982, 7205, 7309, 7404, 7407, 7503, 7596, 7605, 7672, 7704, 7795, 7798, 7847, 7907, 7926, 7932, 8277, 8338, 8754, 8891, 8950, 9005, 9241, 9271, 9293, 9406, 9428, 9550, 9775
  • 9th Prize ₹100
  • 0004, 0022, 0030, 0105, 0270, 0413, 0447, 0487, 0580, 0628, 0639, 0797, 0826, 0855, 0918, 0973, 0998, 1003, 1078, 1220, 1275, 1307, 1320, 1369, 1405, 1498, 1505, 1606, 1621, 1687, 1836, 1867, 1892, 1897, 1900, 2120, 2165, 2203, 2430, 2477, 2479, 2591, 2786, 2813, 2820, 2831, 2876, 2893, 3053, 3213, 3274, 3307, 3373, 3428, 3442, 3531, 3603, 3625, 3870, 3929, 3993, 4126, 4189, 4329, 4330, 4378, 4380, 4527, 4687, 4740, 4747, 4763, 4785, 4901, 4918, 5027, 5095, 5108, 5147, 5353, 5363, 5437, 5503, 5696, 5758, 5813, 6039, 6153, 6239, 6366, 6451, 6460, 6491, 6505, 6564, 6649, 6663, 6701, 6732, 6773, 7013, 7125, 7195, 7252, 7373, 7396, 7402, 7446, 7552, 7788, 7813, 7884, 8025, 8086, 8207, 8220, 8299, 8433, 8489, 8514, 8549, 8658, 8686, 8696, 8740, 8761, 8852, 8857, 9035, 9267, 9307, 9353, 9367, 9386, 9389, 9442, 9530, 9624, 9644, 9647, 9654, 9713, 9789, 9816, 9835, 9869, 9918, 9971, 9987

Kerala Govt Cracks Down on Employees Editing, Adding Watermarks to Official Documents for Social Media Sharing

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Thiruvananthapuram: The Kerala state government has issued a stern warning to its employees, prohibiting them from adding watermarks, editing, or otherwise modifying official government orders and circulars before sharing them on social media platforms. The move comes after it was noted that several employees were circulating altered versions of documents, originally published on official government websites, across platforms like WhatsApp and Facebook.

In a circular issued by the Personnel and Administrative Reforms Department, the government has mandated the immediate cessation of this practice. The directive, released by Additional Chief Secretary Dr. Rajan Namdev Khobragade, highlights that modifying official documents is an unacceptable act.

The circular observes that various social media groups, often including government employees, are hubs for the circulation of these edited documents. The government has instructed that any such modified orders or publications that have already been circulated must be withdrawn immediately.

Department heads have been tasked with ensuring strict compliance with this directive among their subordinate staff. The circular warns that failure to adhere to these instructions will result in departmental action against the offending employees. This measure aims to preserve the authenticity of government communications and prevent the spread of potentially altered official information.

Justin Trudeau and Katy Perry Fuel Dating Rumours with Intimate Yacht Photos

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SANTA BARBARA, CA – An unlikely pairing has set the internet ablaze as former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and pop superstar Katy Perry have been photographed in a series of intimate moments aboard a yacht, fueling intense speculation of a budding romance.

The photos, first published by the Daily Mail on Sunday, show the 53-year-old former political leader and the 40-year-old singer in a close embrace off the coast of Santa Barbara, California. In the snapshots, which have since gone viral, Trudeau is seen shirtless in jeans with his distinctive Haida raven tattoo visible, while Perry wears a sleek black one-piece swimsuit. Various images capture the pair hugging, with one appearing to show Trudeau nuzzling Perry’s cheek and another with his hand resting on her lower back.

Justin Trudeau and Katy Perry

The rumoured couple, both recently single from high-profile relationships, have not made any official comment, but the images appear to confirm a timeline of private meetings that began months ago.

An eyewitness who spoke to the Daily Mail provided startling details of the encounter. “She pulled up her boat next to a small public whale-watching boat, then they started making out,” the witness claimed. “I didn’t realize who she was with until I saw the tattoo on the guy’s arm, and I immediately realized it was Justin Trudeau.”

Speculation about a connection between the two first emerged in July 2025, after they were reportedly seen having an intimate dinner in Montreal, followed by a stroll in Mount Royal Park. Trudeau also attended a Canadian stop on Perry’s “Lifetimes” tour. While reports in August suggested things had cooled, a source told US Weekly in September that they were still in contact and “very interested in each other” but were attempting to keep the relationship private.

The new photos have sent social media into a frenzy, with users debating the authenticity of the pixelated images and expressing shock at the unexpected pairing.

Both stars are navigating new chapters in their personal lives. Trudeau announced his separation from his wife, Sophie Grégoire, in August 2023, while Perry recently ended her relationship with actor Orlando Bloom. A source cited by the Daily Mail this month claimed that romance is “definitely in the air,” stating, “Katy is very, very interested in him. She describes him as a real catch and a high-quality guy.”

While the nature of their relationship remains unconfirmed, the yacht photos have added a dramatic new chapter to one of the year’s most surprising celebrity stories.

Mohanlal Opens Up on New Directors and ‘Convincing’ Scripts: ‘I Need Convincing Answers Too’

KOCHI: In a candid interview with Sai Kiran, Assistant Editor at The Times of India, Malayalam superstar Mohanlal has addressed the persistent question regarding his perceived reluctance to work with new filmmakers, contrasting his approach with that of his contemporary, Mammootty.

​Responding to the observation that Mammootty is known for experimenting with newcomers while he is seen as “reluctant,” Mohanlal refuted the notion, citing his own work with debutant directors on films like Thudarum, Rishabha and Bha.Bha.Ba.

​”I won’t say that’s completely true. Films like Thudarum, Rishabha and Bha.Bha.Ba. were by new directors. I’ve heard scripts from 40-50 newcomers,” the actor revealed.

​However, he firmly stated his own creative requirement: “I need convincing answers too. They may believe their script is convincing, but I should also feel it.”

​Mohanlal noted that turning down scripts sometimes leads to “hatred” from some filmmakers, which he deemed “unfair.” He humorously concluded his thought with a laugh: “If I can’t choose now, when will I be eligible to choose at my will?”

​Respect Across Borders

​Mohanlal also touched upon his connections with actors in other film industries. While he watches films when possible, he doesn’t “follow them closely.” He highlighted the mutual respect he shares with veteran artists, citing an example with Bollywood legend Amitabh Bachchan.

​”For example, when Amitabhbji wanted to watch Vanaprastham, I sent him a CD. Next day he called and asked admiringly, ‘Lal, how can you do such a role!’ Maybe he felt that if he were in my place, he couldn’t have done it. It’s vice versa too,” he shared.

​He explained that his experiences working with legendary actors like Thikkurissi Sukumaran Nair have dissolved any inhibition when meeting icons like Sivaji Ganesan. “It’s about mutual respect. If I stayed with them for a year, maybe they’d change their opinion about me (laughs).”

Kerala Congress (M) in Turmoil: Jose K. Mani Faces Pressure to Quit LDF for UDF

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Kottayam : Kerala politics is witnessing a high-stakes drama as intense pressure mounts on Kerala Congress (M) Chairman Jose K. Mani to break ties with the ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF) and return to the United Democratic Front (UDF) fold. The party finds itself in a precarious state of ‘Trishanku’ (limbo), with its rank and file overwhelmingly favouring a UDF alliance, even as a section of leaders expresses loyalty to the LDF.

​The political scenario is reminiscent of the days of Jose K. Mani’s late father, K. M. Mani, who was known for aligning the party with the sentiments of its core workers. With crucial local body and assembly elections just months away, the younger Mani is reportedly facing an imminent deadline for a decision.

​Grassroots and Clergy Push for UDF

​Sources close to the party indicate that the overwhelming sentiment at the grassroots level is for a return to the UDF. This pro-UDF current is amplified by a strong, palpable anti-government sentiment across the state, coupled with public disillusionment over issues like the Sabarimala controversy. “Even a child knows the Pinarayi government’s time is up,” noted one political observer, highlighting the severity of the public mood.

​The party, which draws significant support from the Christian community, is also being lobbied by bishops and religious leaders, who have openly expressed their desire for the Catholic-leaning Kerala Congress to be part of the UDF.

​UDF’s Open Invitation vs. LDF’s Downgraded Portfolio

​The speculation gained further traction after UDF Convener Adoor Prakash publicly extended an open invitation to the Kerala Congress to rejoin the opposition front.

​A significant point of political comparison is the portfolio held by the party in the two fronts. While K. M. Mani, during the UDF years, commanded the powerful Finance portfolio, a strategic department that gave him considerable leverage, Jose K. Mani’s faction in the current LDF cabinet was allocated the less-influential Irrigation portfolio. This perceived ‘downgrade’ is cited as another reason pushing Jose K. Mani towards a change in allegiance.

​Kottayam Politics and Internal Frictions

​Adding to the internal pressure is the strained relationship between Jose K. Mani and Devassom Minister V. N. Vasavan, a key confidant of Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan. Political observers note Vasavan’s alleged attempts to undermine Jose K. Mani’s influence in their shared political bastion of Kottayam. This contrasts sharply with the approach of former UDF Chief Minister Oommen Chandy, who consistently accorded K. M. Mani the political supremacy in the district, which was considered key to the UDF’s stability.

​Political analysts suggest that Jose K. Mani will likely choose to “jump ship at the right time,” viewing the strong anti-incumbency wave as a clear signal to align the party with the winning trajectory—a move his father K. M. Mani’s legacy would likely endorse. A quick decision is anticipated as both fronts strategize for the forthcoming polls.

‘Minnal Murali 2’ Shelved? Copyright Dispute and Rift Rumors Halt Superhero Sequel

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KOCHI: Hopes for the highly anticipated sequel to Malayalam cinema’s first superhero blockbuster, ‘Minnal Murali’, have been dealt a severe blow amidst strong rumors that the project has been shelved. Reports emerging from industry insiders suggest that a major rift between the production house and the creative team, fueled by a legal battle, has brought the film to a standstill.

According to sources, the primary cause for the halt is an ongoing copyright infringement dispute between the film’s writers and the production banner, Weekend Blockbusters, led by Sophia Paul. This legal conflict has reportedly been simmering for over a year, creating a tense atmosphere and straining the relationship between the producers and director Basil Joseph.

The fallout from this dispute extends far beyond just the sequel. The production house’s ambitious plans for a ‘Minnal Murali’ cinematic universe have also been derailed. Planned cameo appearances for the superhero in upcoming films like ‘Detective Ujjwalan’ and an untitled zombie movie have been put on indefinite hold due to the copyright issues.

Some insider accounts claim that the “greediness” of the production house is the real reason for the conflict, leading to the potential loss of a massive and highly lucrative project.

With ‘Minnal Murali 2’ seemingly on the back burner, it is reported that Weekend Blockbusters is shifting its focus. The studio is allegedly planning a relaunch strategy centered around a new superhero movie to be directed by Sandeep Pradeep.

As of now, neither director Basil Joseph nor the producers at Weekend Blockbusters have made an official statement regarding the situation. Fans, who have been eagerly awaiting the return of their favorite homegrown superhero, must now wait for an official confirmation to learn the ultimate fate of ‘Minnal Murali 2’.

Filmfare Awards 2025: ‘Laapataa Ladies’ Sweeps Major Categories, Alia Bhatt Wins Best Actress

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AHMEDABAD, INDIA – The 70th Filmfare Awards celebrated the best of Hindi cinema from 2024 in a grand ceremony at the EKA Arena on Saturday night. The star-studded event, held in association with Gujarat Tourism, saw Kiran Rao’s acclaimed film “Laapataa Ladies” emerge as the night’s biggest winner, while Alia Bhatt took home the coveted Black Lady for Best Actress.

The evening was marked by glamour and electrifying performances, with superstar Shah Rukh Khan returning to host the prestigious awards after a 17-year hiatus. He was joined by filmmaker Karan Johar and host Maniesh Paul, who kept the audience entertained with their signature wit. The stage was set ablaze with performances by Akshay Kumar, Abhishek Bachchan, Kriti Sanon, and Filmfare debutants Ananya Panday and Siddhant Chaturvedi.

“Laapataa Ladies,” a poignant comedy-drama, dominated the awards, securing an impressive number of wins across major categories. The film’s accolades included Best Music Album for Ram Sampath, Best Screenplay and Best Dialogue for Sneha Desai, and clean sweeps in the supporting actor categories, with Chhaya Kadam winning Best Supporting Actress and Ravi Kishan winning Best Supporting Actor. The film also earned Pratibha Ranta the award for Best Actress (Critics) and Nitanshi Goel the award for Best Female Debut.

In other major categories, Rajkummar Rao was honored with the Best Actor (Critics) award for his powerful performance in “Srikanth.” The award for Best Film (Critics) was presented to “I Want To Talk.”

The ceremony also recognized emerging talent, with Lakshya winning Best Male Debut for his role in “Kill,” and a tie for Best Debut Director between Kunal Kemmu for “Madgaon Express” and Aditya Suhas Jambhale for “Article 370.”

Legendary filmmaker Shyam Benegal was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award for his immense contribution to Indian cinema, while Karan Johar was presented with a special Cine Icon Award.

Here is a list of other key winners from the 70th Filmfare Awards:

  • Best Story: Aditya Dhar and Monaal Thakar for ‘Article 370’
  • Best Playback Singer (Male): Arijit Singh for ‘Sajini’
  • Best Playback Singer (Female): Madhubanti Bagchi for ‘Aaj Ki Raat’
  • Best Lyrics: Prashant Pandey for ‘Sajini’
  • R.D. Burman Award for Upcoming Talent in Music: Achint Thakkar for ‘Jigra’ and ‘Mr and Mrs Mahi’

Diane Keaton, Oscar-Winning Star of ‘Annie Hall’ and Hollywood Icon, Dead at 79

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LOS ANGELES – Diane Keaton, the beloved and unconventional actress who won an Oscar for her quirky, trendsetting role in “Annie Hall” and charmed audiences for over five decades in films from “The Godfather” to “Something’s Gotta Give,” has died. She was 79.

Her death was confirmed to CNN on Saturday by producer Dori Rath, who had worked with Keaton.

No cause of death has been made public at this time. A spokesperson for the Los Angeles Fire Department confirmed to CNN that paramedics responded to a call for medical assistance at Keaton’s home on Saturday morning and transported a person to a local hospital.

The news was first reported by People magazine. CNN’s requests for comment from Keaton’s representatives have not yet been returned.

Keaton was a prolific and celebrated force in Hollywood, a rare talent who moved seamlessly between screwball comedy and profound drama. Her career was launched into the stratosphere with her 1977 Academy Award-winning performance as the free-spirited, “La-Dee-Da” title character in Woody Allen’s “Annie Hall.” The role not only cemented her as a comedic powerhouse but also introduced the world to her inimitable, gender-nonconforming fashion sense. Her signature look of men’s vests, slacks, and bowler hats became an instant style phenomenon and a trademark she proudly maintained throughout her life.

While comedy was her home, Keaton delivered powerful dramatic performances, most notably as Kay Adams-Corleone, the long-suffering wife of Al Pacino’s Michael Corleone in Francis Ford Coppola’s masterpiece “The Godfather” and its sequels.

Born Diane Hall in Los Angeles in 1946, she was inspired to perform after seeing her mother, a homemaker, win a Mrs. Los Angeles pageant. After an early stage career that included a notable role in the original Broadway production of “Hair,” she broke into film with 1972’s “The Godfather.” Her on-screen and off-screen partnership with Woody Allen defined much of the 1970s, producing classics like “Sleeper” and “Play It Again, Sam.”

Her career never waned, with each decade bringing new iconic roles. In the 1980s, she starred opposite Warren Beatty in the epic “Reds,” earning another Oscar nomination, and delighted audiences in the working-mother comedy “Baby Boom” (1987). The 1990s saw her team up with Goldie Hawn and Bette Midler for the blockbuster revenge comedy “The First Wives Club” (1996), a smash hit that proved the box office power of mature female stars.

She earned two more Best Actress Oscar nominations later in her career: one for the 1996 family drama “Marvin’s Room” and another for the 2003 romantic comedy “Something’s Gotta Give,” opposite Jack Nicholson. More recently, she found new success with the “Book Club” films, starring alongside Jane Fonda, Candice Bergen, and Mary Steenburgen.

Keaton, who also directed and produced, never married. “I didn’t want to give up my independence,” she told Interview magazine in 2021, tracing the feeling back to watching her mother sacrifice her own dreams for her family.

In her 50s, she adopted two children, a daughter, Dexter, and a son, Duke, who survive her. Motherhood, she said, fundamentally changed her. “Before kids, if I worried, it was only about myself,” she told Life Magazine in 2005. “But that’s all you do is worry as a parent.”

Reflecting on life at 69, Keaton told AARP Magazine, “At this age, everything seems much more astonishing… There’s a magical aspect, a wonder, to being on this planet.” It was a wonder she shared with the world through a lifetime of unforgettable performances.