Remembering Those We Lost

The SAG Actor Awards 2026 included a heartfelt tribute corner, showcasing beloved figures like Rob Reiner, Catherine O’Hara, and Diane Keaton. It was a solemn reminder that even though they’re gone, their legacies live on.

The memorial service opened with a poignant image of James Van Der Beek from “Dawson’s Creek.” He passed away on February 11 at just 48, after a brave fight against cancer. A touching clip was shared from Eric Dane of “Grey’s Anatomy,” who tragically died on February 19 at age 53. He had announced his ALS diagnosis less than a year prior. His words, “Don’t waste a minute,” truly resonated.

O’Hara was celebrated with clips from her remarkable career, including memorable roles in “Home Alone” and “Schitt’s Creek.” In a clip for “The Studio,” she remarked, “When everything comes together to make a good movie, it’s forever good.” She earned a posthumous SAG-AFTRA award for outstanding female actress in a comedy series. Sadly, she passed away from a pulmonary embolism on January 30 at the age of 71.

Other stars honored during the ceremony were Gene Hackman, Val Kilmer, and Robert Redford. Reiner and his wife, Michelle, were tragically found murdered in their Brentwood home on December 14. He was 78, and she was 70. Keaton, beloved for her role in “Annie Hall,” succumbed to pneumonia on October 11 at 79.

A number of additional celebrities were remembered at the event, including Michelle Trachtenberg, Peter Green, and Graham Greene, among others. Sarah Paulson introduced the segment with a heartfelt speech, emphasizing the bond among actors.

“Actors make up a family of souls, cherishing creative spirits, bonded by challenging pursuits,” she shared, adding pride in being part of the acting community.

Paulson described the dearly departed as “true giants” in Hollywood — as mentors, colleagues, inspirations, and friends. She expressed the collective gratitude felt towards them, reminding everyone to cherish the impact they had on our lives.