Published on March 23, 2026
Shonda Rhimes has defended the exclusion of Eric Dane from the Oscars’ ‘In Memoriam’ segment, asserting, “He is not a movie star.” This statement comes in response to the backlash following the omission of the actor, best known for his role as the charismatic Dr. Mark Sloan on the long-running television series “Grey’s Anatomy.”
Rhimes, the creator of “Grey’s Anatomy,” expressed confidence that Dane would receive the recognition he deserves when the Emmy Awards come around. “When the Emmys arrive, he will be immortalized as he should be,” she added, reflecting on the significant impact Dane had during his tenure on the show and in the television industry overall.
Dane has garnered a dedicated fan base over the years, largely due to his portrayal of Dr. Sloan, a role that not only brought him acclaim but also contributed to the cultural zeitgeist surrounding the series. However, the Oscars are traditionally centered around the film industry, and Rhimes’ comments highlight the ongoing conversation regarding the delineation between television and cinema.
The exclusion from the Oscars’ tribute section has ignited a discussion among fans and industry peers about the recognition of television stars at prominent film events. Many have pointed out that television has become an increasingly vital platform for storytelling and that actors like Dane, who have excelled in this medium, should receive similar honors.
As the entertainment community prepares for the Emmy Awards, it remains to be seen how the industry will continue to evolve in recognizing talent across both television and film, and whether Dane’s contributions will be celebrated in the way Rhimes anticipates.