Emmys In Memoriam Snubs Spark Outrage: Chuck Norris Co-Star Calls Omission 'Tragic'

Key points

• Chuck Norris, who died in March 2026 at age 86, was omitted from the 2026 Emmys In Memoriam segment.
• Judson Mills, Norris's co-star in 'Walker, Texas Ranger,' called the snub a 'tragic' and 'terrible mistake' in a TMZ interview.
• Other notable omissions included Nicholas Brendon, Daveigh Chase, Patrick Muldoon, and Peter Cullen.
• The Television Academy stated the live segment could not include every name, pointing to a fuller online list.
• The segment did honor figures like Catherine O'Hara, Rob Reiner, and Dolly Parton.

Background

The 2026 Emmy Awards In Memoriam segment, which honors figures who passed between August 27, 2025, and August 25, 2026, has a history of omitting notable names due to time constraints. This year's snubs sparked significant online discussion, with fans and industry figures reacting to the exclusions. The Television Academy has previously noted that the live segment is a curated selection, and a more comprehensive list is available online.

How outlets are covering it

Variety and Yahoo focused on the emotional reaction from Judson Mills, who called the omission a 'terrible mistake' and expressed disappointment for Norris's family. TVLine and USA Today provided a broader list of omissions, including Robert Redford and Peter Cullen, and noted the Television Academy's explanation that the live segment could not include every name. All outlets agreed that the snubs sparked controversy, but Variety and Yahoo emphasized the personal impact on Norris's co-star, while TVLine and USA Today highlighted the broader pattern of exclusions and the Academy's response.

Why it matters

The omission of Chuck Norris and other notable figures from the Emmys In Memoriam segment highlights the ongoing tension between the limited time available for such tributes and the desire to recognize all deserving individuals. It also underscores the emotional impact of these omissions on families, co-stars, and fans, and raises questions about the criteria used to select names for the live segment.

What to watch

The Television Academy is expected to continue using a curated list for the live In Memoriam segment, with a more comprehensive list available online. Fans and industry figures may continue to react to the snubs, and the Academy may face pressure to expand the live segment or provide more transparency in its selection process.