Corey Feldman has expressed feelings of exclusion regarding the tribute paid to the late Rob Reiner at the 2026 Oscars. Reiner, who passed away in December 2025, was celebrated during the ceremony by several of his film collaborators, including Feldman’s co-stars from the iconic film *Stand By Me*, Jerry O’Connell and Wil Wheaton. However, Feldman did not attend the awards and later reflected on the tribute, describing it as resembling a “family reunion I wasn’t invited to”.
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In a recent interview with Entertainment Weekly, Feldman conveyed his sentiments surrounding Reiner’s tribute. Reiner, who directed *Stand By Me*, was acknowledged during the 98th Academy Awards, but Feldman was noticeably absent from the event. “We’re not going to use this time to go into my feelings about that,” he stated during a joint interview with O’Connell and Wheaton, which coincided with the film’s 40th anniversary. He further lamented the loss of Reiner, highlighting the tragedy of losing someone they all believed would participate in the continued celebration of the film.
Rob Reiner passed away at the age of 78 at his home in Los Angeles, along with his wife Michele. The devastating news came on 14 December 2025, shortly before the Academy Awards. Their son, Nick Reiner, was arrested the following day and has been charged with two counts of first-degree murder. Nick has pleaded not guilty and could face severe penalties if convicted, with a court date set for 29 April 2026.
Although Feldman was not present to honour Reiner, Jerry O’Connell and Wil Wheaton delivered heartfelt tributes on stage. More than a dozen of Reiner’s collaborators also participated in the tribute, including well-known actors such as Meg Ryan, Demi Moore, and Kathy Bates. Feldman acknowledged the contributions of his former co-stars, stating, “I think Jerry and Wil did what had to be done,” while also expressing a desire for more personal reflections from the stage. “It was a fleeting moment, so I don’t feel like I missed much at all,” he added.
Feldman did express a slight disappointment regarding the nature of the tribute, feeling that it missed a more personal touch. “I personally was probably maybe a little bothered by the fact that nobody got to speak or do or say anything from their own heart,” he remarked, adding that he would have liked to hear more individual tributes from his former co-stars.
Billy Crystal, Reiner’s long-time friend and collaborator, delivered a touching eulogy during the Oscars, highlighting the diversity and significance of Reiner’s work in film. He emphasised that Reiner’s films resonate with audiences due to their ability to evoke laughter and reflection on what it means to be human. Crystal also made a point to honour Michele, describing the couple as “unstoppable.” He noted her impressive contributions as both a photographer and a producer, recognising their joint efforts in advocating for social justice, including their pivotal role in advancing marriage equality in the United States.
The emotional ceremony was not only a tribute to Reiner’s cinematic achievements but also served as a reminder of his impact on the lives of those who had the privilege to work alongside him. Crystal encapsulated Reiner’s legacy by underscoring how much he cherished the connections he formed with his audience and his collaborators.
As Feldman grapples with the loss of a director who significantly influenced his career, his comments reflect a broader sentiment shared by many in the film industry feeling the absence of Reiner. While he acknowledges the recognition given to Reiner’s work at the Oscars, it is clear that the personal ties and shared memories among those who worked with him remain profoundly important.
Rob Reiner’s legacy as a beloved director and advocate is likely to endure in the hearts of those he inspired, while the industry continues to mourn the loss of a creative force.