Why James Van Der Beek and Eric Dane Were Overlooked at the Oscars
Following a swift online backlash, fans are discovering the reasons behind the absence of James Van Der Beek and Eric Dane from the 2026 Oscars In Memoriam segment.
A source informed Us Weekly that the Academy “receives hundreds of requests to highlight loved ones and colleagues from the industry” during this poignant segment. To sift through the numerous requests, an “executive committee” is created, consisting of members representing each branch of the Academy.
The insider clarified that these committee members examine the list and provide “recommendations for the telecast based on the limited time available.”
For individuals who do not receive a dedicated moment during the live show, their names are included on the Oscars’ website. All submissions are featured there for the entire year.
Us has reached out to the Academy for further comments.
On Sunday, March 15, the absence of both Van Der Beek and Dane from the tribute honoring those who died in the past year was conspicuous. However, both actors are acknowledged on the tribute page of the website.
Fans took to social media to voice their disappointment upon noticing the exclusion of the two actors from the In Memoriam segment.
“I know the Oscars always overlooks a few who have passed away. But these three were so recent,” one user articulated on X. “I’m saddened they left out James Van Der Beek, Eric Dane, and Robert Carradine. RIP.”
Both Dane and Van Der Beek passed away just weeks before the Academy Awards were held at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles. Van Der Beek succumbed to colorectal cancer in February at the age of 48.
“Our beloved James David Van Der Beek passed peacefully this morning,” his wife, Kimberly Van Der Beek, shared via Instagram at that time. “He faced his final days with courage, faith, and grace. There will be more to share regarding his wishes, love for humanity, and the sanctity of time. Those details will emerge in due course. For now, we request peaceful privacy as we mourn our beloved husband, father, son, brother, and friend.”
James is survived by Kimberly, 43, and their six children: Olivia, 15, Joshua, 14, Annabel, 12, Emilia, 9, Gwendolyn, 7, and Jeremiah, 4.
Almost a week later, Dane passed away after his battle with ALS. The Grey’s Anatomy star was 53.
The 2026 Oscars presented an emotional In Memoriam segment that notably omitted several celebrities. During the event on March 15, tributes were given to industry members like Rob Reiner, his wife Michele Singer Reiner, Robert Redford, and Diane Keaton by their former co-stars, while Catherine O’Hara was also commemorated in a heartfelt manner […]
“It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Eric Dane on Thursday afternoon after a brave fight against ALS,” his family stated in a message to Us at that time. “He spent his final days surrounded by close friends, his dedicated wife, and their two cherished daughters, Billie and Georgia, who were the center of his universe.”
The statement continued, “During his battle with ALS, Eric became a fervent advocate for awareness and research, aiming to effect change for others encountering similar challenges. He will be dearly missed and fondly remembered forever. Eric treasured his fans and is eternally appreciative of the immense love and support he received. The family has requested privacy as they navigate this incredibly difficult time.”
Dane is survived by Rebecca Gayheart, who retracted her divorce filing in 2025 following the actor’s ALS diagnosis, along with their daughters, Billie, 16, and Georgia, 14.
