Hulk Hogan, Jonathan Joss and Other Stars Absent from Emmys ‘In Memoriam’ Segment
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The 2025 Emmy Awards broadcast failed to include several notable names in its “In Memoriam” segment, drawing criticism from fans and industry insiders alike. Among those notably missing were Hulk Hogan, Jonathan Joss, Danielle Spencer, and Jerry Adler, who were instead featured in a more extensive clip on the Emmys website.
The exclusion of these stars was particularly striking as the tribute was shared alongside a heartfelt performance from Lainey Wilson and Vince Gill. The emotional rendition of Gill’s ballad “Go Rest High on That Mountain” paid tribute to many of TV’s brightest stars who passed away in the previous year.
During the 77th annual Primetime Emmy Awards broadcast, viewers saw a curated list of stars included in the segment, such as Maggie Smith, Teri Garr, Ozzy Osbourne, and Anne Burrell. However, fans were quick to notice the absence of Hogan, Joss, Spencer, Adler, and others, including Val Kilmer, Terence Stamp, Polly Holliday, Tony Todd, and Gene Hackman.
The decision to exclude these individuals from the broadcast version of the “In Memoriam” segment was met with disappointment and outcry on social media. Holly Robinson Peete, in particular, took to Instagram to express her dismay at the omission of Danielle Spencer, highlighting her groundbreaking contributions and legacy in the industry.
Phylicia Rashad, who opened the segment to honour Malcolm-Jamal Warner, delivered a moving tribute during the broadcast. Reflecting on Warner’s passing, Rashad reminded viewers of the profound impact that these departed stars have had on the entertainment industry and the enduring legacy they leave behind.
In response to the backlash over the omissions, the Emmys defended their decision, citing time constraints as a limiting factor in the broadcast presentation. However, they emphasised that a more extensive video paying tribute to the many television colleagues lost in the past year was made available on their website.
The passing of Hulk Hogan, Jonathan Joss, and Danielle Spencer earlier in the year had already left a void in the entertainment community. Hogan, who died at 71 from a heart attack in July, Joss, tragically shot in June at the age of 59, and Spencer, known for her role on ‘What’s Happening!!’, passed away in August at the age of 60.
As the industry continues to reflect on the legacy of these talented individuals, their absence from the Emmy Awards broadcast serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of acknowledging and honouring the contributions of all those who have left an indelible mark on television.
The controversy surrounding the Emmys’ “In Memoriam” segment highlights the complexities of memorialising the departed in a limited timeframe, sparking a broader conversation about how we remember and celebrate the lives of those who have shaped the world of entertainment.
In conclusion, the debate over the exclusion of Hulk Hogan, Jonathan Joss, Danielle Spencer, and others from the Emmys’ tribute underscores the significance of honouring all those who have made meaningful contributions to the industry, ensuring that their legacies endure for years to come.