2026 SAG / ACTORS AWARDS Remembers those we lost.

The 2026 Actor Awards (formerly known as the SAG Awards) was a night of glitz, glamour, and historical sweeps for films like SINNERS, but the most hushed and emotional moments came during the "In Memoriam" segment. This year, the tribute felt particularly heavy as Hollywood said goodbye to a generation of icons and several beloved stars who left us far too soon.

If you missed the telecast on Netflix, here is a look back at the moving tribute and the legends we honored.

A Posthumous Win for Catherine O’Hara

The heart of the evening belonged to the legendary Catherine O’Hara, who passed away on January 30, 2026. In a rare and poignant moment, she was awarded a posthumous Actor Award for Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Comedy Series for her final role in The Studio.

Seth Rogen, her co-star and the show's co-creator, accepted the award on her behalf. In a speech that moved the audience to a standing ovation, Rogen reminded us why she was a "genius of kindness."

Honoring the Icons: Diane Keaton and Gene Hackman

The montage also featured a deeply respectful look at the careers of heavy hitters like Diane Keaton and Gene Hackman. Keaton, an Oscar winner and fashion icon who defined an era of effortless cool in films like Annie Hall, was remembered for her singular spirit. Alongside her, the industry bid a final farewell to Gene Hackman, whose "tough-as-nails" yet nuanced performances left an indelible mark on cinema history.

Gone Too Soon: James Van Der Beek and Eric Dane

The segment opened with a heartbreaking tribute to James Van Der Beek, who passed away in February at age 48 after a courageous battle with colorectal cancer. Seeing clips of his early days on Dawson’s Creek alongside his more recent work reminded everyone of the warmth he brought to every room.

The tribute also honored Eric Dane, the Grey’s Anatomy alum who died on February 19 after a fight with ALS. The segment included a powerful clip of Dane saying, "Don't waste one single minute"—a message that resonated deeply with everyone in the Shrine Auditorium.

A Musical Farewell

Following the montage, the atmosphere was lifted by Miles Caton (breakout star of SINNERS), who performed a stirring rendition of "This Little Light of Mine." Joined by the DC6 Singers, the performance transformed the collective grief of the room into a celebration of the light these performers brought to the world.

The Full List of Honorees

While the montage moved quickly, it made sure to recognize the vast contributions of:

• Robert Redford (A foundational pillar of independent film)

• Rob Reiner (A giant of both acting and directing)

• Val Kilmer (The ultimate screen chameleon)

• Robert Duvall & Diane Ladd (True actors' actors)

Absolutely. To celebrate the extraordinary lives and careers of the legends honored at the 2026 Actor Awards, here is a curated "Legacy Watchlist." These are the definitive performances that shaped cinema and television for generations.

The Pioneers of Character

• Robert Duvall – Tender Mercies (1983) & The Godfather (1972): To see the range of the "American Olivier," watch his quiet, Oscar-winning turn as Mac Sledge, then revisit his cool-headed brilliance as Tom Hagen. He was the ultimate chameleon.

• Gene Hackman – The French Connection (1971): His performance as "Popeye" Doyle redefined the gritty American anti-hero. For a complete 180, watch his comedic genius in The Royal Tenenbaums.

• Diane Keaton – Annie Hall (1977): It’s more than a movie; it’s the birth of an icon. Her style, humor, and vulnerability in this role changed the archetype of the "leading lady" forever.

The Titans of Style & Substance

• Robert Redford – Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid (1969): The film that cemented his status as a global superstar. His chemistry with Paul Newman remains the gold standard for on-screen pairings.

• Val Kilmer – Tombstone (1993): His portrayal of Doc Holliday is widely considered one of the greatest supporting performances in Western history. "I'm your Huckleberry" will live forever.

• Rob Reiner – All in the Family (1971–1978): Before he became a legendary director, he was "Meathead," a role that allowed him to tackle the most pressing social issues of the 70s with heart and humor.

The Beloved Screen Icons

• Catherine O’Hara – Schitt’s Creek (2015–2020) & Best in Show (2000): While her Moira Rose is a modern masterpiece of comedic timing, her work in Christopher Guest’s mockumentaries proves she was a master of improvisation long before she became a meme queen.

• James Van Der Beek – Dawson’s Creek (1998–2003): He was the face of a generation’s coming-of-age. For a look at his underrated dramatic range, check out The Rules of Attraction.

• Eric Dane – Euphoria (2019–2025): While "McSteamy" made him a star on Grey’s Anatomy, his haunting, complex performance as Cal Jacobs showcased a depth and bravery that defined his later career.

The Faces of Television

• Michelle Trachtenberg – Buffy the Vampire Slayer (2000–2003): As Dawn Summers, she navigated the impossible task of joining a beloved ensemble and making the role her own.

• Malcolm-Jamal Warner – The Cosby Show (1984–1992): He grew up in front of the world, providing a grounded, relatable anchor to one of the most successful sitcoms in history.

• George Wendt – Cheers (1982–1993): Sometimes, a single name—"Norm!"—is all it takes to summarize a legendary career. He made every person in the bar (and the audience) feel like his best friend.