SAG Awards 2026 Honors Late Stars in Emotional In Memoriam Segment

The 2026 SAG Actor Awards paid heartfelt tribute to several beloved figures from the entertainment industry during its In Memoriam segment. The ceremony, held in Los Angeles, featured a montage honoring stars such as Rob Reiner, Catherine O’Hara, and Diane Keaton, who all passed away within the past year.

The segment commenced with a poignant image of James Van Der Beek, known for his role in “Dawson’s Creek.” Van Der Beek died on February 11, 2026, at the age of 48 after a courageous battle with cancer. Following this, a clip of Eric Dane from “Grey’s Anatomy” resonated deeply, as he urged viewers, “Don’t waste one single minute.” Dane, who announced his diagnosis of ALS less than a year prior, tragically passed away on February 19, 2026, at the age of 53.

O’Hara’s legacy was celebrated through a series of clips showcasing her extensive career, including memorable performances in “Home Alone” and “Schitt’s Creek.” Notably, she was awarded the first-ever SAG-AFTRA posthumous award for outstanding female actress in a comedy series earlier that evening. O’Hara, who died from a pulmonary embolism on January 30, 2026, was 71 years old.

Honoring Legends and Their Contributions

The ceremony also remembered other luminaries such as Gene Hackman, Val Kilmer, and Robert Redford. Reiner, who directed iconic films like “When Harry Met Sally,” was found dead alongside his wife, Michele Singer Reiner, at their home in Brentwood on December 14, 2025. He was 78 years old, while his wife was 70. Keaton, famed for her role in “Annie Hall,” succumbed to pneumonia on October 11, 2025, at the age of 79.

The In Memoriam segment acknowledged a multitude of other notable figures, including Michelle Trachtenberg, Peter Greene, Graham Greene, and Loni Anderson. Each of these individuals left an indelible mark on the industry, and their contributions were recognized and celebrated during the event.

Sarah Paulson introduced the emotional segment with a heartfelt speech, emphasizing the familial bond shared among actors. “Actors make up a family of souls bonded by a challenging pursuit,” she remarked. Paulson expressed pride in being part of the acting community, highlighting the profound impact that the deceased had on their colleagues and audiences alike.

“True giants” she described them, calling them “teachers,” “co-workers,” “inspirations,” and “friends.” Paulson concluded with a reminder of the legacy they left behind. “We are happier, wiser, made just a bit more expansive by their shared spirit,” she stated, urging the audience to remember how fortunate they are to have been influenced by these remarkable talents.

The In Memoriam segment served not just as a tribute, but as a reminder of the enduring impact these artists have had on the world of entertainment and beyond. Their legacies will continue to inspire future generations of performers and audiences alike.