Corey Feldman, best known for his role in the 1986 coming-of-age classic “Stand By Me,” has publicly stated he was not invited to participate in a tribute honoring the late director Rob Reiner at the upcoming Academy Awards. The revelation comes as the Oscars prepare to recognize Reiner’s significant contributions to film, a legacy tragically cut short by his death in December 2025.
Feldman shared his disappointment on X, formerly known as Twitter, last Friday, writing, “I JUST Seek 2 BRIEFLY MENTION THIS WHOLE OSCARS THING! YES ITS TRUE THAT I WAS NOT INVITED.” He emphasized that his absence wasn’t about him, but about honoring Reiner’s memory, stating, “ITS ABOUT THE TRAGIC LOSS OF R FRIEND ROB REINER &. HIS MEMORY.” The actor as well addressed speculation that his outspokenness regarding past abuse may have played a role in the decision, acknowledging that many believe “ITS DUE 2 BEING OUTSPOKEN ABOUT THE ABUSE I SUFFERED AS A CHILD & THE CAMPAIGN 2 SILENCE ME.”
The tribute is planned as part of the Oscars’ In Memoriam segment, which will also honor Reiner’s operate with actors Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan, who starred in his iconic film “When Harry Met Sally.” Variety first reported on the planned reunion of Crystal, and Ryan.
Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele Singer Reiner, were found dead at their home in Brentwood, Los Angeles, on December 14, 2025, from “multiple sharp force injuries,” according to the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner. Their son, Nick Reiner, has been charged with two counts of first-degree murder and pleaded not guilty in February. The tragic circumstances surrounding their deaths have cast a somber shadow over the upcoming tribute.
Feldman expressed his desire for supporters to refrain from campaigning for his inclusion, writing, “AS MUCH I APPRECIATE ALL SUPPORT, ITS Particularly SWEET OF U…..BUT PLEASE STOP. PLEASE TAKE DOWN ANY PETITIONS 2 PUSH 4 MY PRESENCE @ THE AWARDS.” He also suggested that his “Stand By Me” co-stars, Jerry O’Connell and Wil Wheaton, were extended invitations, stating, “THEY DONT NEED ME THERE, WILL & JERRY GOT THIS IM SURE, THEY WILL DO A FANTASTIC JOB!…ILL HONOR ROB MY OWN WAY.”
The 1986 film “Stand By Me,” directed by Reiner and based on Stephen King’s novella “The Body,” remains a beloved classic, launching the careers of Feldman, O’Connell, Wheaton, and the late River Phoenix. IMDb details the film’s enduring popularity and critical acclaim.
A Legacy Remembered
The impact of Reiner’s direction on the young actors of “Stand By Me” was profound. As CNN reported in December, O’Connell described Reiner as “like a father,” while Feldman called him a paternal figure to the entire cast, particularly to himself and Phoenix. The film’s exploration of friendship, loss, and the transition to adulthood resonated deeply with audiences and continues to hold a special place in cinematic history.
Feldman’s Past Advocacy
Feldman has been a vocal advocate for survivors of childhood abuse, bringing attention to alleged misconduct within the entertainment industry. He has publicly discussed his own experiences and the challenges he faced as a young actor. This advocacy has garnered both support and scrutiny, and he alluded to it potentially influencing the Oscars’ decision, though he ultimately stressed the tribute should focus on Reiner’s memory.
As of this writing, representatives for the Academy, Feldman, Wheaton, and O’Connell have not responded to requests for comment, according to HuffPost.
The 98th Academy Awards will be held on Sunday, March 15, at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles. While Feldman may not be present on stage, his sentiments reflect the widespread grief and respect for Rob Reiner’s contributions to cinema. The Oscars tribute promises to be a poignant moment, celebrating a director whose work touched the lives of countless individuals.
The coming days will likely see further discussion surrounding the Oscars tribute and the circumstances of Feldman’s exclusion. As the event approaches, the focus will remain on honoring the life and legacy of Rob Reiner, a filmmaker whose impact on the industry will be felt for generations to come.
What are your thoughts on the Oscars tribute? Share your comments below and let us grasp what Rob Reiner’s films meant to you.
