Actor Corey Parker snubbed from Oscars 'in memoriam' had appeared in infamous 1989 ceremony

The 2026 Academy Awards “In Memoriam” segment is facing renewed scrutiny after it was revealed that actor Corey Parker — who was omitted from the tribute — had previously appeared in one of the most infamous moments in Oscars history.

Parker, who died on March 5 at age 60 following a battle with cancer, was not included in this year’s televised tribute honoring members of the film industry who passed away. The omission has drawn attention not only because of his decades-long career, but also due to his past connection to the ceremony itself.

In 1989, Parker was part of a now-notorious Oscars segment titled “The Stars of Tomorrow,” a musical number designed to showcase rising young actors. The performance featured a group of emerging talents, including Patrick Dempsey and Christian Slater, and was introduced by Hollywood legends Lucille Ball and Bob Hope.

During the number, Parker delivered one of the segment’s standout moments by mimicking an Oscar acceptance, part of a theatrical sequence meant to imagine the performers’ future success. The elaborate production, however, has since been widely criticised and is often remembered as one of the most awkward or misguided segments in Oscars history.

Beyond that moment, Parker built a steady career spanning decades, with roles in television and film including As the World Turns, Thirtysomething, Friday the 13th Part V and a recurring role on Will & Grace.

His omission comes amid broader backlash over this year’s “In Memoriam” segment, which left out several notable names. While the Academy often honors additional figures on its official website, the televised exclusions continue to spark debate about how contributions to film and television are recognized on Hollywood’s biggest night.

For many observers, Parker’s absence feels particularly striking, not just because of his career, but because he once stood on the Oscars stage as a hopeful newcomer, long before becoming one of the names missing from its tribute.