2026 Emmys In Memoriam Snubs: Fans React as Key Stars Omitted From Tribute

Television's biggest night delivered emotional tributes to lost icons, but the In Memoriam segment also sparked frustration over notable exclusions. During the 78th Primetime Emmy Awards broadcast from Los Angeles, the academy paid respect to beloved actors and filmmakers who passed away over the previous year. However, viewers quickly pointed out that recognizable stars including Nicholas Brendon and Daveigh Chase were absent from the main screen tribute. Singer-songwriter Noah Kahan provided the musical backdrop for the memorial sequence, delivering a heartfelt performance of the classic tune "Bridge Over Troubled Water." As his vocals resonated through the auditorium, a video package showcased images of industry legends who departed recently. ## Who was honored during the 2026 Emmy Awards In Memoriam segment? The broadcast dedicated several special moments to iconic figures who died in recent months. Country music royalty Reba McEntire took the stage alongside Oscar winner Sally Field to remember Dolly Parton. McEntire delivered a poignant rendition of Parton's track "Appalachian Memories" to honor the country legend, who died at age 80 following a battle with cancer. Parton previously claimed an Emmy Award in 2021 as an executive producer for her holiday television movie. Another emotional highlight featured a reunion of screen family members. Macaulay Culkin, Annie Murphy, and Dan Levy stepped out together to pay tribute to Catherine O'Hara, who passed away in January at age 71 from a pulmonary embolism. Additionally, Jamie Lee Curtis spoke on stage to honor the legacy of director Rob Reiner, who died alongside his wife Michele Singer Reiner late last year. ## Why were Nicholas Brendon and Daveigh Chase left out of the Emmys tribute? Despite the lengthy broadcast and featured speeches, viewers expressed disappointment when several notable names failed to appear during the memorial scroll. Reports noted that both Nicholas Brendon and Daveigh Chase were omitted from the televised portion of the tribute, causing fans to voice their dismay online. While the television academy often includes expanded lists on its official website, the exclusion from the main broadcast left many watching at home feeling let down.