Oscars In Memoriam Omission Sparks Criticism from Geoff Keighley

The 98th Academy Awards paid tribute to several film-industry figures who passed away over the previous year, naming individuals such as Rob Reiner and Michele Singer Reiner, Diane Keaton, Catherine O’Hara, Robert Duvall, Diane Ladd, and Robert Redford in the In Memoriam montage. The segment culminated with Barbra Streisand performing “The Way We Were” as a farewell to Redford, a moment that moved many viewers.

However, one notable absence drew public attention: David Keighley, a producer widely recognized for his influential work with IMAX. Geoff Keighley, the founder of The Game Awards, criticized the Oscars for omitting his late father from the tribute.

Following the ceremony, Geoff Keighley took to X (formerly Twitter) to express his disappointment, writing that he was “incredibly disappointed and heartbroken that the #Oscars and AMPAS chose not to include my father, David Keighley, and his immeasurable contributions to IMAX and cinema in the In Memoriam segment in the broadcast.” He added, “I will never forget.”

The post drew swift responses from supporters, with comments ranging from expressions of sympathy to calls for recognition of Keighley’s impact on the IMAX format. One commenter offered, “We will remember him for you. Screw those pompous dummies,” while others wished Geoff strength during his loss.

David Keighley, who died in August 2025, was instrumental in shaping IMAX’s development and standards. As IMAX’s first chief quality officer, he worked with directors including Christopher Nolan and James Cameron to ensure high-quality IMAX filmmaking and technology.