The Oscars In Memoriam segment, introduced in 1994, has become a staple of the ceremony, but it is almost equally famous for the annual outcry over omitted stars. This year, notable absences included Brigitte Bardot, James Van Der Beek, Malcolm-Jamal Warner, and Bollywood actor Dharmendra, sparking social media outrage.
Contrary to claims of forgetfulness, the selection process is meticulous. A committee whittles down hundreds of names to around 30. Bruce Davis, former executive director of the Academy, described the process as 'agonising', noting that familiar public figures are inevitably dropped.
Bardot's omission is particularly complex. At France's Cesar awards, her name was booed due to her far-right involvement and multiple convictions for inciting racial hatred. Speculation suggests the Academy avoided a similar response in the Dolby Theatre.
Personal conduct can also influence decisions. Last year, Alain Delon was omitted, with Variety's Peter Debruge citing his 'bad boy behaviour'. Delon had faced criticism for homophobic, misogynistic, and racist statements, as well as domestic violence allegations.
More often, omissions are due to space constraints. With hundreds of industry deaths annually and only a few minutes for the segment, not everyone can be included. The segment also honours less public-facing roles like casting directors and producers, as well as figures like Giorgio Armani for his film costume design.
Stars primarily known for TV work, such as Van Der Beek and Warner, may be left out in favour of their own awards shows. As Shonda Rhimes noted regarding Eric Dane's omission, 'He's not a movie star, and I feel like when the Emmys come around he will be immortalised the way he should be.'
