Oscars Controversy: Missing Stars Spark Outrage in In Memoriam Segment!

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At the 2025 film awards ceremony, everything ran smoothly without any on-stage mishaps like slapping, incorrect awards, or embarrassing moments. Yet, the event still sparked online debates due to notable absences in the In Memoriam tribute, such as Bernard Hill, Shannen Doherty, and another esteemed figure whose loss was unfortunately overlooked.

The Academy has taken significant steps in recent times not just to honor actors and directors on-screen and off-, but also those unsung heroes who ensure movies reach our screens. These range from scriptwriters and editors, to choreographers and publicists. The list of talent we’ve lost in the last year can be extensive, yet striving for inclusivity sometimes leads the Academy to overlook notable stars during their emotional tributes.

Despite the presence of notable figures such as David Lynch, James Earl Jones, Donald Sutherland, and Gene Hackman, many spectators pointed out several other celebrated actors who were not part of the lineup. This group included Trachtenberg, famous for his roles in “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” and “Gossip Girl,” who had sadly passed away just before the event, Doherty from “Gen V,” Chance Perdomo from “Lord of the Rings,” horror legend Tony Todd, as well as Alain Delon, Tony Roberts, Olivia Hussey from “Romeo and Juliet,” Linda Lavin, James Darren, Mitzi Gaynor, Martin Mull, and documentary filmmaker Morgan Spurlock.

Indeed, condensing all the notable figures from the Hollywood industry within the limited duration of the In Memoriam segment can be quite challenging, inevitably leading to some individuals not being included in the tribute.

The Oscars Paid Tribute to Many Stars

Despite some criticism for overlooking Doherty, Todd, Perdomo, and Trachtenberg specifically, the cinema event did take time to honor many others who have passed away throughout the years. To begin with, Whoopi Goldberg and Oprah Winfrey presented a musical tribute to Quincy Jones, followed by Queen Latifah singing “Ease on Down the Road” from The Wiz. Prior to the main In Memoriam segment, Morgan Freeman delivered a heartfelt personal tribute to Gene Hackman. In his speech, Freeman said:

This week, our community mourns the loss of a titan. Personally, I lost a cherished friend, Gene Hackman. It was an honor to collaborate with him on two films, ‘Unforgiven’ and ‘Under Suspicion.’ Just as everyone who acted alongside him will attest, Gene was not only a generous performer but also a man whose talents raised the bar for us all. As he often said, ‘I don’t focus on legacy; I merely hope people recall me as someone who strived to create good work.’ In expressing our sentiments, I believe we can all say, ‘Gene, you will be remembered not only for your dedication to quality work but for so much more.’ Farewell, my friend. May you rest in peace.

Undeniably, the In Memoriam video stirred memories among viewers about the remarkable artists, scriptwriters, film directors, cameramen, and many more who have departed this year in Hollywood. While it’s challenging to acknowledge everyone who has left us, it doesn’t mean that those not featured in the montage are any less cherished, honored, or missed within the industry.

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2025-03-03 19:02