5 Stars Who Deserved To Be Remembered At The Emmys 2024 But Were Snubbed

The 2024 Primetime Emmy Awards offered an evening of glamour, celebration, and heartfelt remembrance, showcasing the achievements of television's brightest stars. One of the most emotionally resonant moments of the night was the In Memoriam segment, which honored those beloved figures who had passed away since the last Emmys.

Accompanied by a poignant performance of "I Am Not Okay" by rapper Jelly Roll, the tribute included iconic talents such as James Earl Jones, Shannen Doherty, Phil Donahue, Peter Marshall, and Gena Rowlands. Their contributions to the television industry were remembered with deep reverence, touching the hearts of audiences everywhere.

However, as the names and faces of these celebrated individuals appeared on screen, many viewers were left disheartened by the glaring omissions of several other notable stars. The absence of these beloved figures, each of whom had made significant contributions to television, sparked immediate reactions across social media platforms.

Fans and industry professionals alike questioned the decision to exclude certain personalities who had left a lasting legacy in the industry. This oversight was seen as a missed opportunity to properly honor the full spectrum of talent that television has lost, leaving many to feel that the segment, though moving, was incomplete.

Here’s a closer look at the notable figures who were snubbed during the Emmys 2024 In Memoriam.

1. Chita Rivera

Broadway legend Chita Rivera, who passed away in January at the age of 91, was another shocking omission. Rivera was not only a star on stage but also had a significant presence on television, appearing in shows like The New Dick Van Dyke Show, Dora the Explorer, and Will & Grace.

Despite her illustrious career and influence in both the theater and television industries, Rivera’s absence from the tribute did not go unnoticed, with fans expressing their disappointment online.

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2. Shelley Duvall

Fans of Shelley Duvall were stunned when the legendary actress was not included in the Emmys In Memoriam segment. Although Duvall is best known for her role in The Shining, she was also a pioneer in children's television, creating and starring in Emmy-nominated shows like Shelley Duvall's Bedtime Stories and Tall Tales & Legends.

Duvall passed away in July 2024 at the age of 75, and her exclusion from the tribute led to an outpouring of frustration from her admirers, who took to social media to express their dismay.

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3. John William Wactor III

The omission of John William Wactor III from the In Memoriam segment left many fans puzzled. Wactor, best known for his role as Brando Corbin on the Emmy-award-winning soap opera General Hospital, tragically lost his life at the age of 37 in a shooting during an alleged attempted robbery.

Despite his connection to an iconic daytime show and his untimely passing, Wactor was noticeably absent from the tribute. This exclusion sparked outrage among fans of the show and those who admired his work.

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The Importance of Commemoration

Dr. Sonja Lyubomirsky, a happiness researcher at the University of California, Riverside, emphasizes the psychological benefits of acknowledging contributions from influential figures in media. Her studies reveal that commemorating those we've lost fosters a sense of community and shared values, which can enhance collective well-being.

In the context of the Emmys, honoring overlooked artists can inspire future generations, reminding us that their legacies shape the fabric of television. By including a broader array of honorees, the Emmys could better reflect the diverse narratives that enrich our cultural landscape.

To better recognize the contributions of overlooked stars, experts suggest implementing a more inclusive nomination process. A media analyst pointed out that expanding the voting body to include a wider range of industry voices could help mitigate the risk of snubbing deserving talent.

A recent survey by Dr. Pepper Schwartz, a sociologist, found that diverse panels produce more equitable outcomes in award nominations. By doing this, the Emmys could ensure that all voices are heard, creating a more representative and celebratory atmosphere that honors the true breadth of television talent.

4. Tyler Christopher

Another General Hospital star who was left out of the tribute was Tyler Christopher. Christopher, who passed away at the age of 50 following a cardiac event, had made a significant mark on television through his roles as Nikolas Cassadine on General Hospital and Stefan DiMera on Days of Our Lives.

With five Daytime Emmy nominations under his belt, Christopher's contributions to the soap opera world were substantial, making his omission from the tribute all the more surprising and disappointing.

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5. Lou Dobbs

Political commentator Lou Dobbs, a prominent figure in television journalism, was also missing from the tribute. Dobbs, who passed away this year at the age of 78, was a former CNN and Fox Business anchor with an Emmy for Lifetime Achievement to his name.

Despite his extensive career in television, Dobbs was not included in the In Memoriam segment, sparking criticism from viewers who felt that his contributions to the industry should have been recognized.

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As the curtain closes on another Emmy Awards, it seems the In Memoriam segment left us with more questions than answers. While some stars were rightly celebrated, others were left waiting in the wings. Perhaps next year, the Emmys will remember that "snubbed" isn't just a five-letter word—it’s a headline.

Psychological Insights & Implications

In closing, recognizing the contributions of all artists at prestigious events like the Emmys is essential for fostering an inclusive and representative industry. Experts agree that a more equitable nomination process could significantly improve the acknowledgment of underrepresented talents.

By embracing diversity in both nominations and tributes, the Emmys can not only honor the past but also inspire future storytellers. This proactive approach will not only enhance the event's reputation but also enrich the viewing experience for audiences everywhere.