Shonda Rhimes criticises Oscars for snubbing Eric Dane In Memoriam, promises Emmys recognition

Shonda Rhimes is sharing her thoughts on the Oscars’ decision to omit Eric Dane from their In Memoriam segment, which honors actors who passed away over the past year.

Dane was widely recognized for his role as Dr. Mark Sloan on the Rhimes-produced show Grey’s Anatomy and recently appeared in HBO’s Euphoria. 

With a distinguished career on television, Rhimes expressed hope that the Emmys would duly remember Dane's contributions.

“Well, he wasn’t a film star, if you think about it,” Rhimes mentioned to Entertainment Tonight at the Vanity Fair gathering. 

“I believe when the Emmys arrive, he will be remembered as he deserves.”

She added, “We can’t blame the Oscars for being focused on films. There were countless individuals lost, but Eric was distinct in the television realm, and I eagerly anticipate what they will do for him [at the Emmys].”

Rhimes described Dane as an “incredible individual” and remarked, “His passing was a massive loss for us. It was significant for the Shondaland community, for the Grey’s Anatomy team. Truly, the people who knew him saw he was just a remarkable, generous person. I’m uncertain if everyone truly grasps how extraordinary he was.”

Dane’s film portfolio also included X-Men: The Last Stand (2006), Marley & Me (2008), Valentine’s Day (2010), Burlesque (2010), Little Dixie (2023), and Bad Boys: Ride or Die (2024).

Dane died on February 19 due to respiratory failure with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) being a contributing factor. 

The actor had been diagnosed with ALS last April but noted he was “able to continue working.”

He did, while increasing awareness during a guest role on Brilliant Minds, portraying a character with ALS.