How might the Television Academy address concerns about potential bias in the *In Memoriam* selection process,as highlighted by the omissions of Graham Greene and Tony Todd?

Graham Greene and Tony Todd Omitted from In Memoriam Segment at 2025 Emmys: A Controversy & Why It Matters

The 2025 Primetime Emmy Awards,broadcast on September 14th,2025,drew criticism following the ceremony for the conspicuous absence of actors Graham Greene and Tony Todd from the annual In Memoriam segment. This omission sparked a wave of discussion online, particularly within communities focused on portrayal in Hollywood, diversity in film and television, and the importance of acknowledging contributions from Indigenous actors and Black actors. The controversy highlights ongoing issues surrounding who is deemed “visible” enough for memorialization and the systemic biases that can influence these decisions.

The Missing Honorees: Graham Greene & Tony Todd

Both Graham Greene and Tony Todd passed away in 2023,leaving behind meaningful legacies in the entertainment industry.

* Graham Greene (1952-2023): A celebrated Oneida actor, Greene was renowned for his roles in Dances with Wolves (earning an Academy Award nomination), Maverick, The Green Mile, and Longmire.He was a pivotal figure in increasing Indigenous representation in film and a powerful advocate for Native American rights. His work often challenged stereotypical portrayals and brought nuanced characters to life.

* Tony Todd (1954-2023): A prolific character actor,Todd is best known for his iconic portrayal of Candyman in the Candyman film series. He also had memorable roles in Night of the living Dead, The Rock, and numerous television appearances. Todd was a groundbreaking Black horror actor who consistently delivered compelling performances and broke barriers for other actors of color.

The absence of both actors from the in Memoriam segment, a traditionally comprehensive tribute to industry professionals lost during the year, felt particularly jarring to many viewers and industry insiders.The hashtag #EmmysInMemoriam quickly trended on social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and TikTok, filled with calls for accountability and recognition.

Why were They Omitted? Potential Factors & Industry Practices

Determining the exact reason for omissions from the In Memoriam segment is frequently enough difficult.The Television Academy has not released a detailed explanation for this year’s choices. However, several factors likely contribute to these decisions:

1. Membership Status: While not a strict requirement, Television Academy membership often increases the likelihood of inclusion. Both Greene and Todd were not members of the Academy.
2. Scope of Work: The segment typically focuses on individuals with significant contributions to television. While both actors had extensive film careers, their television work may have been deemed insufficient for inclusion by the selection committee. This raises questions about the definition of “significant contribution” and whether film work should be considered alongside television credits.
3. Submission process: There is a submission process for consideration, requiring networks, studios, or representatives to actively submit names and biographical information. It’s possible submissions were missed or overlooked.
4. Time constraints: The In Memoriam segment is limited by broadcast time, forcing difficult choices about who to include. This doesn’t excuse the omission, but it acknowledges the practical limitations.
5. Potential Bias: The most concerning possibility is unconscious or systemic bias within the selection process. The lack of diversity in the Emmys overall has been a long-standing issue, and this omission could be seen as a continuation of that pattern.

The Impact of Omissions: Representation & Visibility

The outcry over Greene and Todd’s exclusion underscores the importance of In Memoriam segments as more than just a list of names. They are a public acknowledgment of a person’s life and work,and a statement about who the industry values.

* For Indigenous Communities: The omission of Graham Greene was particularly painful for Indigenous communities, who have historically been underrepresented and marginalized in Hollywood. It reinforced the feeling that their contributions are often overlooked or undervalued.

* For Black Actors in Horror: Tony Todd’s absence was felt acutely within the Black horror community, where he is a beloved and influential figure. It highlighted the ongoing struggle for recognition and respect for Black artists in the genre.

* The Ripple Effect: This incident serves as a reminder that celebrity deaths often spark broader conversations about representation and the need for greater inclusivity in all aspects of the entertainment industry.

Past Controversies & Similar Incidents

This isn’t the first time the Emmys In Memoriam segment has faced criticism for omissions. In 2023, the exclusion of several notable figures, including Power Rangers actor jason David Frank, generated similar outrage. These incidents highlight a recurring pattern of overlooking individuals, particularly those from marginalized groups, or those whose work doesn’t fit neatly into traditional categories. The SAG-AFTRA memorial often provides a more comprehensive tribute, but the emmys hold significant cultural weight.

What Can Be Done? Improving the Process

several steps could be taken to improve the In Memoriam selection process and ensure greater inclusivity:

1. Expand the Selection Committee: Diversifying the committee responsible for selecting honorees could help mitigate unconscious bias.
2. Review submission Guidelines: Streamlining the submission process and making it more accessible could ensure that all deserving individuals are considered.
3. Broaden the Definition of “Significant Contribution”: Recognizing contributions beyond traditional television roles, including film work and advocacy, could lead to a more comprehensive tribute.
4. Increase Transparency: Providing a clear explanation of the selection criteria and process could build trust and accountability.
5. Proactive Outreach: The Television academy could proactively reach out to unions, guilds, and community organizations to identify individuals who should be considered. Film industry unions like SAG-AFTRA could play a key role.

The omission of Graham Greene and Tony Todd from the 2025 Emmys In Memoriam segment is a stark reminder that the fight for equity in Hollywood is far from over. It’s a call to action for the Television Academy and the industry as a whole to prioritize representation, inclusivity, and a more equitable recognition of talent. The conversation surrounding this incident is crucial for fostering a more just and respectful entertainment landscape.