This year’s Oscars ‘in memoriam’ segment paid tribute to numerous deceased film stars while omitting notable names like Brigitte Bardot, James Van Der Beek, and Eric Dane. The awards ceremony featured heartfelt tributes to late stars, including a touching moment from Billy Crystal honoring his friend Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele, who tragically passed away in late 2025.

Following Billy’s tribute, Rachel McAdams honored Catherine O’Hara and Diane Keaton, and Barbra Streisand delivered a musical homage to Robert Redford. The in memoriam video montage acknowledged several stars such as Claudia Cardinale, Robert Duvall, and Val Kilmer, yet it overlooked several beloved figures.

Notably absent from the tribute was Brigitte Bardot, the iconic French actress who passed away at 91 in December 2025. Brigitte’s controversial legacy stirred reactions at the Cesar Awards, where her inclusion in memoriam was met with disapproval from the audience.

The list of omissions also included James Van Der Beek, who died at 48 in February, known for his roles in TV and films like Varsity Blues, and Eric Dane, recognized for his role in the X-Men films before his death earlier this year from ALS. Additionally, Malcolm-Jamal Warner, June Lockhart, Bud Cort, George Wendt, Julian McMahon, James Ransone, Loretta Swit, Demond Wilson, Dharmendra, and Prunella Scales were not acknowledged in the tribute.

Criticism arose from fans over the exclusions, with many expressing disappointment over the absence of these prominent figures. The Oscars have faced previous backlash for omitting significant names in their in memoriam segment, such as Michelle Trachtenberg, Chance Perdomo, Alain Delon, Tony Todd, and Olivia Hussey.