The Oscars’ In Memoriam segment, a time for the entertainment industry to pay tribute to those who passed away in the past year, is always a highly-anticipated moment during the awards ceremony. However, this year’s segment has received criticism for leaving out some important names, sparking conversation about the significance of honoring individuals in the entertainment industry who may not have been as well-known.
The Oscars’ In Memoriam Segment
During this year’s In Memoriam segment, Lenny Kravitz performed the song “Calling All Angels,” while a slideshow of notable deaths played behind him. The segment included names like Angela Lansbury, Ray Liotta, Jean-Luc Godard, and others. However, there were some notable individuals who were missing from the segment, including Charlbi Dean, Anne Heche, Paul Sorvino, and Tom Sizemore. Fiddler on the Roof star Chaim Topol was also left out, despite passing away just a few days before the ceremony.
While the Academy announced that more than 200 filmmakers, artists, and executives would be remembered in an extended photo gallery on their digital magazine, A.frame, this did little to alleviate the criticism surrounding the In Memoriam segment. Many felt that these individuals deserved to be honored on the televised broadcast and that their contributions to the entertainment industry should not go unrecognized.
John Travolta introduced the segment and became emotional when discussing those in the industry who passed away over the past year. The late Olivia Newton-John, who died in August 2022 at the age of 73, was included in the tribute. However, some felt that the segment missed an opportunity to truly celebrate the diversity of the entertainment industry, particularly given the ongoing push for more inclusive representation in Hollywood.
The Issue of Recognition
This year’s In Memoriam segment has sparked conversation about the importance of recognizing individuals in the entertainment industry, particularly those who may not have been as well-known. While it is undoubtedly difficult to include every single person who passed away in the past year, many feel that the segment should strive to be as inclusive as possible and honor the contributions of all individuals, regardless of their level of fame or success.
It’s also worth considering the broader issue of recognition in the entertainment industry. Many individuals work tirelessly behind the scenes, contributing to the success of films and TV shows in ways that often go unnoticed. While actors and directors may receive the lion’s share of attention and accolades, it’s important to remember that there are countless other individuals who play critical roles in the industry and who should be celebrated for their contributions.
Moving Forward
As the entertainment industry continues to grapple with issues of diversity, equity, and inclusion, it’s important to consider how we recognize and celebrate the contributions of all individuals. While this year’s In Memoriam segment may have missed the mark, it’s an opportunity for the Academy to reflect on how they can make future ceremonies more inclusive and representative of the vast array of individuals who contribute to the entertainment industry.
In the meantime, we can all take a moment to remember and honor those individuals who passed away in the past year, whether they were well-known or not. The entertainment industry is a collaborative effort, and it’s important to recognize and celebrate the contributions of all individuals who make it possible.
