Was Eric Dane left out of the Oscars 2026 'In Memoriam' segment? Family and Academy respond

The 98th Academy Awards has faced backlash from fans and family alike following the omission of beloved actor Eric Dane from the televised "In Memoriam" segment. Known globally for his iconic roles in 'Grey’s Anatomy' and 'Euphoria', Dane passed away on February 19, 2026, after courageously battling Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS).

While his widow, Rebecca Gayheart, expressed sadness over the televised snub, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences also clarified on Dane's mention.

How did Eric Dane's family react?

Eric Dane, widely recognised for his role in the television series ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ (2005), passed away on February 19 after battling a serious illness. His absence from the on-air segment left his family disappointed. According to TMZ, Rebecca Gayheart, the family was “saddened” by the omission but also acknowledged the larger context, noting that “It was a year of profound loss for the industry.”

Academy clarifies Eric Dane's inclusion

While he did not appear during the live telecast, Eric Dane was included in the extended “In Memoriam” list published on the Academy’s official website. This ensured that his contribution to the entertainment industry was formally recognised alongside other artists. His family expressed appreciation for this inclusion, seeing it as a meaningful acknowledgement despite the absence from the televised tribute.

Following criticism over the exclusion of certain names, including Dane, the Academy clarified its selection process. According to News18, a report explained, “The Academy receives hundreds of requests to include loved ones and industry colleagues for the show’s in memoriam segment. Through those, an executive committee representing every branch considers the list and makes recommendations for the telecast based on the limited run of show time.

”The statement further added, “All the submissions are included on Oscars.org, and remain there for the year,” highlighting that while not every individual can be featured on screen, all are acknowledged digitally.

All about Eric Dane

Eric Dane leaves behind a remarkable legacy defined by versatility and memorable performances across television and film. Best known for ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ (2005) and ‘Euphoria’ (2019), he passed away at 53 after a courageous battle with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis on February 19, 2026. Beyond his on-screen work, he spent his final months raising awareness about the condition. Survived by his wife Rebecca Gayheart and their children, Dane’s journey, from early roles in ‘The Wonder Years’ (1988) to impactful performances, continues to be remembered by fans and the industry alike.