Oscars 2026: Bollywood icon Dharmendra missing from Oscars' In Memoriam segment, internet reacts

The In Memoriam segment at the Academy Awards is often one of the ceremony’s most emotional moments, as the global film community pauses to remember artists who shaped cinema. But this year’s tribute at the 98th Academy Awards sparked unexpected debate among fans in India. When the segment aired at the Dolby Theatre, many viewers quickly noticed a striking omission: Bollywood legend Dharmendra was not included. The absence of the veteran star, who passed away last year after a career spanning more than six decades, left fans questioning why one of Hindi cinema’s most enduring icons was missing from the tribute.

Dharmendra’s absence sparks conversation

Dharmendra, who died in November 2025 at the age of 89, was not featured in the In Memoriam segment during the 98th Academy Awards ceremony held in Los Angeles. The tribute traditionally honours actors, directors, technicians and other film professionals from across the global industry who passed away in the previous year.

For many cinephiles, the omission came as a surprise. Over the decades, the Oscars have occasionally recognised prominent figures from Indian cinema during the tribute segment. In 2024, art director Nitin Chandrakant Desai was included. Earlier ceremonies also remembered and celebrated Indian artists such as Irrfan Khan and Bhanu Athaiya in 2021, and icons like Sridevi and Shashi Kapoor in 2018.


Fans had hoped that Dharmendra, whose influence on Hindi cinema spanned generations, would be honoured on the global stage as part of the tribute.

A career that defined Hindi cinema

Over a career lasting more than 65 years, Dharmendra appeared in more than 300 films and became one of the most recognisable faces of Hindi cinema. Known for his versatility, he seamlessly moved between intense dramatic roles, romantic leads and action-packed characters.

His filmography includes some of Bollywood’s most beloved classics, including Sholay, Chupke Chupke, Phool Aur Patthar and Seeta Aur Geeta. Many of these films became defining moments in Indian cinema and remain widely celebrated decades after their release. Throughout the late 1960s, 1970s and 1980s, he consistently delivered commercially successful films. Popular titles from this era include Ankhen, Yaadon Ki Baaraat, Dharam Veer and Ghulami. Alongside his mass appeal, he also earned praise for performances in critically appreciated films such as Anupama, Mamta, Devar, Naya Zamana, Black Mail, Dillagi, The Burning Train, Ghazab and Hathyar.

Hollywood tributes dominate the segment

While Dharmendra’s absence drew attention online, the In Memoriam segment itself paid tribute to several Hollywood figures like Rob Reiner. The tribute highlighted Reiner’s filmography, including projects such as This Is Spinal Tap, A Few Good Men and Misery. Later in the segment, Canadian actor Rachel McAdams honoured Catherine O'Hara and celebrated her enduring presence in the industry. The tribute also recognised Diane Keaton, highlighting her distinctive style and contributions to cinema.

Clips showcasing the work of Val Kilmer and Robert Duvall were also featured during the segment, drawing applause from the audience. The tribute concluded with a poignant moment as Barbra Streisand celebrated her The Way We Were co-star Robert Redford. Streisand’s musical tribute to the classic film left the audience visibly emotional.

BAFTA had honoured the veteran star

While the Oscars tribute did not include Dharmendra this year, the veteran actor’s legacy had earlier been acknowledged at the 79th BAFTA Awards. The British ceremony featured him in its own In Memoriam segment following his passing in November 2025.

Netizens react

Soon after the Oscars broadcast, social media users began discussing the omission, with many expressing disappointment that the legendary Bollywood actor had not been included in the tribute list.

Some fans pointed out that Dharmendra devoted his entire life to cinema and built a body of work that shaped generations of Hindi film audiences. Others reflected on the Oscars’ global reputation and questioned why one of India’s most celebrated actors had not been recognised during the segment.

Final years and passing

In October 2025, Dharmendra was admitted to the hospital after experiencing breathing difficulties. He was placed under observation in the intensive care unit and discharged after his condition stabilised. The veteran actor was hospitalised again in November 2025 due to respiratory issues. He later passed away on 24 November 2025 at his residence in Mumbai at the age of 89 following an age-related illness.

His last rites were held at the Pawan Hans crematorium in Mumbai’s Vile Parle area, attended by family members and colleagues from the film industry who gathered to pay their final respects to one of Hindi cinema’s most enduring legends.