HEARTBREAKING NEWS: Just Now in Ojai, California, USA — Country Music Star Jimmy Fortune Mourns the Passing of Beloved Actress Diane Ladd, Who Has Died at Age 89.

COUNTRY MUSIC STAR JIMMY FORTUNE MOURNS THE PASSING OF BELOVED ACTRESS DIANE LADD, WHO HAS DIED AT AGE 89. 💔🎶

The worlds of music and film are united in sorrow tonight as country music star Jimmy Fortune shared an emotional tribute to the late Diane Ladd, the legendary actress whose seven-decade career helped define the golden age of Hollywood.

Ladd, who passed away peacefully at her home in Ojai, California, at the age of 89, was celebrated for her unforgettable performances in Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore, Chinatown, and Wild at Heart. Her artistry and grace transcended generations, earning her three Academy Award nominations, a Golden Globe, and the love of audiences around the world.

Jimmy Fortune, moved to tears upon hearing the news, released a heartfelt message from his home in Virginia:

“She was a light in every room she entered — and now that light shines in heaven.”

Fortune, known for his soaring tenor voice and his work with The Statler Brothers, spoke of how Diane Ladd’s performances often reminded him of the same truths he found in song — honesty, love, and the quiet strength of the human heart.

“Diane had that rare gift,” he said softly. “She could make you laugh, cry, and believe — all in the same moment. That’s what real art does. It reaches the soul.”

Friends say that Jimmy and Diane had met years ago at a charity gala in Nashville, where they instantly connected over their shared faith and appreciation for the storytelling power of art. Since then, Fortune had often described her as “a woman of rare grace — the kind this world doesn’t see enough of anymore.”

As tributes flood in from both Hollywood and the country music community, many are reflecting on the depth of her influence. From her collaborations with daughter Laura Dern — including their Oscar-nominated roles in Rambling Rose — to her quiet generosity behind the scenes, Diane Ladd’s life was a testament to purpose and perseverance.

Jimmy concluded his statement with words that echoed the reverence of a prayer:

“Heaven gained a storyteller tonight. I know she’s up there, smiling that sweet smile — and maybe even acting out a scene for the angels.”

Tonight, candles flicker in living rooms across America — from Nashville to Los Angeles — in memory of a woman whose light touched every corner of art and heart.

Diane Ladd’s story will forever live on — not only on the screen, but in the song of every soul she inspired. 🌹🎬

Video