Eric Dane, the acclaimed actor known for his role as Dr. Mark Sloan in Grey’s Anatomy, passed away on February 19, 2026, at the age of 53 due to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). His death, along with the recent passing of fellow actors James Van Der Beek and Brigitte Bardot, has led to significant discussions regarding the recognition of their contributions to the entertainment industry.
Despite his impact on television, Eric Dane was notably absent from the In Memoriam segment at the 2026 Oscars, which aired on March 15. This omission has drawn criticism from fans and industry peers alike, with many expressing outrage on social media. Comments such as “What a disgrace” and “i was sad that eric dane didn’t appear in the in memoriam tribute at the oscars” reflect the disappointment felt by his supporters.
Shonda Rhimes, the creator of Grey’s Anatomy, weighed in on the controversy, stating, “He’s not a movie star, and I feel like when the Emmys come around he will be immortalised the way he should be.” This sentiment underscores the unique position Dane held in television, separate from traditional film accolades.
The In Memoriam segment at the Oscars is traditionally dedicated to honoring deceased actors and filmmakers, and this year’s tribute included notable names such as Robert Redford, Diane Keaton, and Rob Reiner. However, the exclusion of Dane, Van Der Beek, and Bardot has raised questions about the criteria used for these tributes.
James Van Der Beek, who passed away just days before Dane on February 11, 2026, at the age of 48, also faced similar neglect in the Oscars tribute. Bardot, who died on December 28, 2025, at the age of 91, was another significant figure whose absence from the segment did not go unnoticed. Social media users voiced their frustration, questioning how such legends could be overlooked.
As the entertainment community grapples with these omissions, the emotional weight of the 2026 Oscars has been described as one of the most poignant ceremonies in recent memory. The backlash against the Academy’s decisions highlights the ongoing conversation about how the industry honors its icons.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding whether the Academy will address these omissions in future ceremonies or if changes will be made to the In Memoriam criteria. The legacy of Eric Dane and his contributions to television will likely continue to be a topic of discussion as fans and colleagues remember his work.