Why the Baftas omitted two big stars from their in memoriam tributes

EntertainmentMovie
23 Feb 2026 • 7:20 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

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  • Viewers expressed disappointment over the omission of James Van Der Beek and Eric Dane from the in memoriam segment at this year's Bafta Film Awards.
  • Both actors, who passed away recently, were not included in the tribute, which featured a performance by Jessie Ware.
  • A Bafta spokesperson clarified that the actors will be honoured at the Bafta TV Awards later this spring.
  • Bafta stated: “We honour those within the sector in which their work was most closely associated. Our TV Awards take place later this spring. James and Eric are remembered on our website.”
  • James Van Der Beek died at 48 from colorectal cancer, and Eric Dane passed away at 53 after being diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).