Shonda Rhimes Defends Eric Dane’s Omission from Oscars In Memoriam
Shonda Rhimes spoke backstage at the Academy Awards to Filmogaz.com. She addressed reactions after Eric Dane was not included in the Oscars’ In Memoriam segment. Rhimes said the omission reflected the ceremony’s movie focus and could be rectified by television awards.
Rhimes’ response and context
Rhimes defended the absence of Dane from the Oscars reel. She noted the Academy honors films, while Dane’s career was primarily on television. Rhimes said the Emmys will likely give him the recognition he deserves.
Details of Dane’s passing
Eric Dane died on Feb. 19 at age 53. His death certificate lists respiratory failure as the immediate cause. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or ALS, was recorded as an underlying cause.
Career highlights
- Mark Sloan, plastic surgeon on Grey’s Anatomy. He held the role for eight years.
- Captain on TNT’s The Last Ship, which centered on a global pandemic storyline.
- Roles on Charmed and HBO’s Euphoria as Nate Jacobs’ father during seasons one and two (2019–22).
- Film appearances include Jamie Madrox/Multiple Man in X-Men: The Last Stand (2006).
- He also appeared as a reporter in Marley & Me (2008).
ALS awareness and on-screen work
Dane once portrayed an ALS patient on an NBC medical drama. The episode ended with his character recording speech with a voice-generating app. He used his platform to raise public awareness about ALS.
Rhimes praised Dane as a generous colleague and friend. She called his loss profound for the Shondaland and Grey’s Anatomy communities. She urged audiences to await the Emmys for a television-centered tribute.
