Academy to Expand 2026 ‘In Memoriam’ Segment After ‘Painful Year’ of Hollywood Losses
Producers Katy Mullan and Raj Kapoor promise a deeply "nuanced" tribute as the 98th Oscars honor a staggering number of cinema titans.
LOS ANGELES — The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences is preparing for one of the most emotional “In Memoriam” segments in the ceremony’s 98-year history. Producers confirmed Thursday that the tribute during the March 15 broadcast will be officially extended to accommodate what they described as a “painful year of losses” for the global film community.
Speaking to trade outlets ahead of Sunday’s show, executive producer Katy Mullan emphasized the weight of the task. “We’ve had an incredibly tough year,” Mullan said. “So many cinema titans have passed away. Shaping this segment has taken a lot of thought and will continue to evolve right up until showtime.”
The 2026 ceremony comes on the heels of the loss of several high-profile legends, including Robert Duvall, Diane Keaton, and Diane Ladd. Producer Raj Kapoor noted that the tribute’s logistics—from graphic design to the specific placement of names—are being handled with extreme sensitivity. “It’s a chance for people to say goodbye, and we don’t take it lightly,” Kapoor stated.
The extended tribute adds a somber layer to a night otherwise dominated by the record-breaking success of Ryan Coogler’s Sinners, which enters the evening with a historic 16 nominations. The film’s sweep across the technical and acting categories has made it the clear frontrunner for Best Picture.
Hosted by Conan O’Brien for the second consecutive year, the 98th Academy Awards will air live from the Dolby Theatre on ABC and Hulu. While the “In Memoriam” segment often faces criticism for “snubs” or pacing, the Academy appears determined to ensure that this year’s larger-than-life losses receive the screen time they deserve.
“Our goal is to balance the celebration of these incredible careers with the personal impact these figures had on audiences worldwide,” Kapoor added.
Final preparations are underway in Hollywood as the red carpet is rolled out, with security measures heightened following recent regional tensions. Despite the somber nature of the tribute, organizers promise a ceremony that balances the gravity of loss with the joy of cinematic achievement.
