The 2026 Academy Awards’ In Memoriam segment, a longstanding tradition honoring artists who have passed, sparked debate due to several notable omissions. The tribute, designed to reflect recent industry losses, included icons such as Diane Keaton, Robert Redford, Robert Duvall, and Diana Ladd, with performances and introductions by Barbra Streisand, Rachel McAdams, Kiefer Sutherland, and Meg Ryan.

However, fans quickly noted missing names, including James Van Der Beek, Eric Dane, Malcolm-Jamal Warner, Brigitte Bardot, and Gene Hackman. Hackman’s absence was explained by his being honored in the previous year’s ceremony, but others prompted online discussions about how the Academy selects figures for the televised segment. Reports also noted omissions like Robert Carradine, June Lockhart, and Bud Cort, though these individuals were acknowledged on the Academy’s online memorial page.

This controversy highlights a recurring tension: the televised In Memoriam segment carries symbolic weight, but limited runtime and prioritization—often favoring film legacies over television—mean some notable figures are inevitably left out. While the Academy maintains a comprehensive online list, viewers continue to scrutinize each year’s selections, underscoring the emotional significance audiences attach to remembering every deserving contributor.