Hollywood has lost a legend, but it seems the Academy failed to take proper notice. Tony Todd, the iconic actor best known for his chilling performance in Candyman, passed away on November 6, 2024, at the age of 69. While fans and industry veterans continue to celebrate his decades-long career, his absence from the “In Memoriam” tribute at the 97th Academy Awards has left many questioning how such a glaring oversight could happen.
Born on December 4, 1954, in Washington, D.C., Tony Todd was more than just a horror star. His deep, commanding voice and towering presence made him unforgettable in films like Final Destination, The Crow, and Night of the Living Dead. Beyond horror, he played pivotal roles in Star Trek, The X-Files, and 24, proving his versatility across genres.
Yet, despite his remarkable contributions, Todd’s exclusion from the Academy Awards’ tribute segment has left fans outraged. It’s not just about one actor being left out; it’s a reflection of a larger issue in Hollywood—how genre actors are often overlooked when it comes to major industry recognition.
Social media erupted as soon as the Oscars’ tribute aired, with fans and colleagues calling out the Academy for snubbing Todd. Many pointed out that he wasn’t the only one missing—actress Michelle Trachtenberg and Beverly Hills, 90210 star Shannen Doherty were also left out.
“The Academy’s job is to honor the industry’s best. Ignoring Tony Todd is a massive insult to horror fans and cinema as a whole,” one Twitter user wrote.
Despite the uproar, the Academy has remained silent on the matter, leading many to believe that actors in horror and science fiction still don’t get the respect they deserve in mainstream Hollywood.
Regardless of awards show snubs, Tony Todd’s impact on cinema is undeniable. His legacy lives on through the countless actors and filmmakers he inspired, the horror films that continue to terrify audiences, and the deep admiration of fans worldwide.
Perhaps the Academy forgot him, but his fans never will.