The family of late actor Eric Dane was reportedly saddened after he was excluded from the “In Memoriam” tribute at the 2026 Oscars.
According to TMZ, a source close to Dane’s ex-wife, Rebecca Gayheart, said the family understood that “it was a year of profound loss for the industry,” despite their disappointment. An Academy insider reportedly explained that the omission was not intentional but due to limited airtime during the ceremony.
Although Dane was not included in the televised segment, his name appeared on the Academy’s official “In Memoriam” webpage, which reportedly brought comfort to his loved ones.
The former Grey’s Anatomy star died on February 19 after battling ALS. He shared daughters Billie, 15, and Georgia, 14, with Gayheart. While the pair separated in 2017 after 13 years of marriage, Gayheart withdrew her divorce petition in March 2025 shortly before Dane publicly revealed his diagnosis.
Meanwhile, James Van Der Beek was also noticeably absent from the tribute. The Dawson’s Creek star reportedly died after battling colon cancer and is survived by his wife, Kimberly, and their six children.
Fans online criticised the omission of both actors, with many arguing they deserved recognition for their contributions to film and television. Some social media users pointed out that although Dane and Van Der Beek were primarily known for television roles, both actors also appeared in several movies throughout their careers.
The backlash echoes reactions from last year’s Oscars ceremony when late actress Michelle Trachtenberg was also excluded from the televised “In Memoriam” tribute, sparking outrage among fans.
