The First Wives Club casting director remembers 'extraordinary' Diane Keaton
It's been almost a week since Diane Keaton passed away from pneumonia, with tributes continuing to flow strong and steadfast for the star.
Ilene Starger cast the Academy Award winner in the hit 1996 film, The First Wives Club and she shared with Today Extra just what was so magical about Keaton's personality both on screen and behind the camera.
"She had the knack of having wonderful chemistry with pretty much everyone she worked with, when you think about that, it's kind of extraordinary," Starger said.
Subscribe to the Today newsletter here. Nine
It's been almost a week since Diane Keaton passed away.
READ MORE: Britney Spears hits back at ex-husband's toxic allegations
"And she was so kind and respectful, she knew everyone's name on set, she never thought of herself as a giant movie star and I think audiences related to her humility, her innate goodness and also tremendous vulnerability."
Starger revealed as soon as she read the script for The First Wives Club, she knew Keaton would be perfect for the role of anxious, self-deprecating housewife Annie.
She also said the iconic dance scene where Keaton and co-stars, Bette Midler and Goldie Hawn dance to Lesley Gore's You Don't Own Me, wasn't originally in the script for the film.
The First Wives Club starred Bette Midler, Goldie Hawn and Diane Keaton. Paramount Pictures
"We added that on at the end of shooting, thinking it would be a very satisfying ending to the film, but we really fought for the financing, to get that scene added," she said.
"But people just love it and let's face it, the three of them and I can't take credit because they're all so talented, Bette, Goldie, Diane, they just meshed together so beautifully, each of them brilliant and I think it's a reason why people still find that film so satisfying."
Watch the full interview with Ilene Starger in the video above
We’d love to hear from you
