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Oscars 2026 In Memoriam Segment Criticized for Omitting Stars
Fans express outrage over exclusion of James Van Der Beek, Eric Dane, and others from the annual tribute
Mar. 16, 2026 at 1:43am
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The 2026 Oscars In Memoriam segment honored several notable stars who passed away, including Rob Reiner, Diane Keaton, and Robert Redford. However, the segment faced criticism for failing to include several high-profile actors such as James Van Der Beek, Eric Dane, Robert Carradine, and Malcolm-Jamal Warner, prompting an outcry from fans on social media.
Why it matters
The Oscars In Memoriam is an important annual tradition that pays tribute to those in the entertainment industry who have died in the previous year. The omission of several well-known actors has sparked discussions about the selection process and the need for the Academy Awards to ensure a comprehensive and inclusive memorial segment.
The details
James Van Der Beek, known for his roles in Varsity Blues, Scary Movie, and other films, passed away in February 2026 from stage III colorectal cancer, but was not included in the In Memoriam. Eric Dane, who starred in Grey's Anatomy and numerous movies, also died in February 2026 due to complications from ALS, but was also left out of the tribute. Other notable exclusions included Robert Carradine, who was known for his role in Lizzie McGuire, and Malcolm-Jamal Warner, the Cosby Show star who died in an accidental drowning in 2025.
- The 2026 Oscars ceremony took place on March 16, 2026.
- James Van Der Beek passed away on February 11, 2026.
- Eric Dane passed away on February 19, 2026.
- Robert Carradine died by suicide on February 23, 2026.
- Malcolm-Jamal Warner died on July 20, 2025.
The players
James Van Der Beek
An American actor known for his roles in Varsity Blues, Scary Movie, and other films, who passed away in 2026 from stage III colorectal cancer.
Eric Dane
An American actor who starred in the TV series Grey's Anatomy and appeared in numerous films, including Valentine's Day and X-Men: The Last Stand, who died in 2026 due to complications from ALS.
Robert Carradine
An American actor best known for his role in the TV series Lizzie McGuire, who also appeared in films such as Django Unchained and the Revenge of the Nerds saga, and died by suicide in 2026.
Malcolm-Jamal Warner
An American actor who rose to fame for his role on the TV series The Cosby Show, and also appeared in films like Restaurant and Fool's Gold, who died in an accidental drowning in 2025.
What’s next
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, which organizes the Oscars, has not yet commented on the criticism surrounding the In Memoriam segment. It remains to be seen if they will address the omissions and make changes to the selection process for future ceremonies.
The takeaway
The Oscars In Memoriam segment is meant to be a solemn and comprehensive tribute to those in the entertainment industry who have passed away, but the exclusion of several high-profile actors has highlighted the need for the Academy to ensure a more inclusive and thoughtful approach to honoring the lives and legacies of those who have contributed to the art of filmmaking.
