James Van Der Beek, Eric Dane left out of 2026 Oscars 'In Memoriam'

James Van Der Beek and Eric Dane were excluded from the “In Memoriam” tribute at the 2026 Academy Awards. Van Der Beek lost his battle to colon cancer in February, and Dane passed away later that same month of ALS. Social media users reacted on X, with one writing, "What a missed opportunity," and another adding, "It was wrong to leave them out." Many noted the pair were primarily known for their work on television, though both appeared in films during their careers.

The pair died just ahead of the awards show — as did Michelle Trachtenberg, whose snub made headlines last year. Other performers left out included Brigitte Bardot, Malcolm-Jamal Warner and Robert Carradine, while the segment did honor Catherine O’Hara, Robert Duvall and Diane Ladd.

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