India, Oct. 12 -- Diane Keaton, the acclaimed film actress, died at the age of 79 in California. The Godfather actress, known for her love for animals, famously supported the Big Cat Public Safety Act.

The news of Keaton's death was first confirmed by People, which cited a family representative who requested privacy. No cause of death has been made public. A friend of Keaton told the outlet that her health had taken a sharp downturn in recent months.

The Big Cat Public Safety Act is a US federal law that bans the private possession, breeding, and acquisition of big cats such as tigers, lions, and leopards. Acredited zoos, sanctuaries, are considered exceptions. The law prohibits public contact with big cat, and requires registration for...