‘Grey’s Anatomy’ Creator Shonda Rhimes Says Eric Dane Was Excluded From Oscars In Memoriam Because ‘He’s Not a Movie Star’: ‘We Can’t Fault the Oscars’
The Academy Awards excluded Eric Dane, who died in February at 53 after battling ALS, from their In Memoriam segment. Dane was best known for playing Dr. Mark Sloan on Grey's Anatomy and starring in HBO's Euphoria. Grey's Anatomy creator Shonda Rhimes defended the decision, stating that Dane wasn't primarily a movie star and would be properly honored at the Emmys instead.
Eric Dane deserved recognition at the Oscars regardless of his primary medium, given his cultural impact and the loss felt by his audience. Television actors who pass away should be acknowledged at major award shows, especially when they were as prominent and beloved as Dane was.
The Oscars focus on film achievements, so it's understandable they prioritize movie stars in their limited In Memoriam time. Dane will receive proper recognition at the Emmys, which is more appropriate given his television legacy and where his contributions will be most meaningfully honored.
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Shonda Rhimes On Oscars Omitting Eric Dane From In Memoriam: “When The Emmys Come Around, He Will Be Immortalized The Way He Should Be”
Deadline
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Shonda Rhimes Defends TV Star Eric Dane’s Oscars In Memoriam Omission
The Hollywood Reporter
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‘Grey’s Anatomy’ Creator Shonda Rhimes Says Eric Dane Was Excluded From Oscars In Memoriam Because ‘He’s Not a Movie Star’: ‘We Can’t Fault the Oscars’
Variety