Oscars producers defend In Memoriam segment after backlash over omissions

Oscars producers have responded to criticism surrounding the In Memoriam segment at the 2026 Academy Awards, following backlash over the omission of several notable figures from the televised tribute.

The ceremony, held on MArch 15 in Los Angeles, included the annual segment honouring members of the film industry who passed away over the past year. However, viewers raised concerns after figures such as Eric Dane and James Van Der Beek were not featured in the live broadcast.

Rob Mills, executive vice-president of unscripted and alternative entertainment at Walt Disney Television, addressed the criticism in an interview, describing the segment as one of the most complex elements of the show.

“I think it’s the hardest thing they possibly do. It always is hard when they are sort of villainised for this. Yes, there’s always people who are left out. Unfortunately, we’re losing more and more people, and especially, we’re losing legendary people every year, so it is probably the hardest needle to thread. I do think what they did last night might have been the best In Memoriam in the history of the Oscars,” he said.

Mills added that the final selection is determined by the Academy and involves careful planning, particularly given the limited time available during the broadcast.

Providing further insight, he said: “When you lose people like that … the In Memoriam really needs to be really, really done — these are legendary names for losing.”

Although the televised segment did not include every individual, the Academy later published an extended memorial list on its official website. This list featured more than 300 names from across the film industry, including Eric Dane and James Van Der Beek.