What was Diane Ladd's cause of death?

Diane Ladd, the acclaimed actress, passed away in November 2023 at the age of 89 due to chronic hypoxic respiratory failure, with interstitial lung disease and esophageal dysmotility as contributing factors.

How did Ladd's daughter, Laura Dern, remember her?

Laura Dern, Diane Ladd's daughter, described her mother as an "amazing hero" and a "profound gift of a mother" in the aftermath of her passing.

What did Ladd's ex-husband, Bruce Dern, say about her?

Bruce Dern, Ladd's ex-husband, praised her as a "tremendous actress" who was a "bit of a 'hidden treasure' until she ran into David Lynch," noting that when Lynch cast her in "Wild at Heart," it felt like the world truly understood her brilliance.

Home / Arts and Entertainment / Acclaimed Actress Diane Ladd's Cause of Death Revealed: Chronic Respiratory Failure

Acclaimed Actress Diane Ladd's Cause of Death Revealed: Chronic Respiratory Failure

18 Nov, 2025

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Summary

Diane Ladd, Oscar-nominated actress, passed away on Nov. 3, 2023
Cause of death was chronic hypoxic respiratory failure
Ladd's daughter, Laura Dern, remembered her as an "amazing hero" and "profound gift"

Acclaimed Actress Diane Ladd's Cause of Death Revealed: Chronic Respiratory Failure

In November 2023, the entertainment world mourned the passing of acclaimed actress Diane Ladd, who died at the age of 89. Ladd's cause of death has now been revealed as chronic hypoxic respiratory failure, with interstitial lung disease and esophageal dysmotility cited as contributing factors.

Ladd, a prolific actress with a six-decade career, was known for her Oscar-nominated performances in films like "Alice Doesn't Live Here Anymore" and "Wild at Heart." Her daughter, actress Laura Dern, shared the news of her mother's passing and remembered Ladd as her "amazing hero" and a "profound gift of a mother."