The 98th Academy Awards were held on Sunday, March 15, and broadcast live from the Dolby Theatre at Ovation Hollywood. The prestigious award ceremony honored the best in film and entertainment in 2025 and included an “In Memoriam” segment for those who passed away last year. While some celebrities, like beloved director and writer Rob Reiner, Diane Keaton, and Robert Redford, got special mention, other stars were seemingly forgotten.
Among those who were snubbed for the segment but featured on the official website were Eric Dane, James Van Der Beek, Malcolm-Jamal Warner, Robert Carradine, and James Ransone, People reports. The decision to note include these stars left many feeling angry and disappointed. Director Scott Derrickson made a special mention of Ransone and his exclusion in a heartfelt post on X.
Scott Derrickson Remembers James Ransone
Derrickson, who directed films “Sinister” and “Black Phone,” paid tribute to Ransone, who died by suicide on December 19, 2025. He was 46. In a post on X on March 17, Derrickson wrote an emotional message about Ransone and how much he misses him.
“The Oscars In Memoriam ignored him but I cannot. He was my friend. I put him in five films,” he wrote, while also sharing a photo of Ransone. “In early January I buried James ‘PJ’ Ransone after he committed suicide…He was a complex, funny, talented, and undeniably reckless person. He was wildly alive and deeply loved. “
He continued, “I know he said some infuriating things online, but the last time I saw him, he cried with regret for all of that. ‘I didn’t mean to hurt anyone’s feelings,’ he said. Please don’t trash him here. He is dearly missed.”
Fans Rally Around Scott Derrickson
GettyDerrickson received support from fans and friends who reacted to his post. “I’m so sorry for your loss Scott. I’ve heard D say how much he meant to both of you,” a comment reads. “A human, a talent sorely missed. Thanks for this, Scott,” another person shared.
“It’s infuriating how many people the academy left out of the In Memoriam… There were so many people missing…” a third person shared.
Ransone is beloved for his roles in “The Wire,” “Generation Kill,” “Bosch,” and “It Chapter Two,” in which he plays Eddie Kaspbrak. The actor is survived by his wife, Jamie McPhee, and their two young children, Violet and Jack. A GoFundMe page was set up after his passing to help raise funds for his family. At present, $249,992 has been raised.
If you or someone you know is having suicidal thoughts, dial 988 to reach the toll-free Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. It’s available 24 hours a day, seven days a week (dial 888-628-9454 for assistance in Spanish). You can also speak with a trained crisis counselor anytime by texting HOME to 741741 to reach the Crisis Text Line.
