Corey Feldman, the former child star known for his role in the classic film 'Stand By Me', has publicly accused the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences of deliberately excluding him from a planned onstage tribute to the late director Rob Reiner at the 2026 Oscars ceremony. The actor took to social media to express his disappointment, while simultaneously urging his supporters not to petition for his inclusion, insisting that the focus should remain on honouring Reiner's memory.
Feldman's Social Media Statement Details the Alleged Snub
In a post written entirely in capital letters on the platform X, Feldman, now 54 years old, confirmed that he had not received an invitation to participate in the tribute segment. "I just want to briefly mention this Oscars thing! Yes, it's true that I was not invited," he stated. The actor acknowledged that many of his followers believe the omission is linked to his longstanding and vocal campaigns regarding the childhood abuse he suffered within the entertainment industry, which he claims have led to efforts to silence him. However, Feldman was quick to redirect the narrative. "However, this isn't about me. It's not my moment at all. It's about the tragic loss of our friend Rob Reiner and his memory," he emphasised.
Co-Stars Reportedly Invited as Feldman Plans Personal Tribute
The Oscars' In Memoriam segment, scheduled for the ceremony on Sunday, is set to feature actors from Reiner's acclaimed films paying tribute onstage. Reports indicate that Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan, stars of 'When Harry Met Sally', are among those participating. Feldman suggested that his 'Stand By Me' co-stars, Jerry O'Connell and Will Wheaton, were asked to be part of the tribute, but he was not. The 1986 coming-of-age film also starred the late River Phoenix. Feldman expressed confidence in his former colleagues, writing, "Will and Jerry got this I'm sure. They will do a fantastic job... I'll honour Rob my own way." He explicitly requested that fans cease any online petitions advocating for his inclusion at the awards show.
Background on the Tragic Death of Rob Reiner
Rob Reiner, the celebrated filmmaker behind beloved movies such as 'The Princess Bride', 'Misery', and 'This Is Spinal Tap', was found dead alongside his wife, Michele Singer Reiner, in their Los Angeles home in December 2025. The couple died from stab wounds. Their son, Nick Reiner, was arrested and charged with their murders. He entered a plea of not guilty to the charges in February 2026. The film industry was profoundly shaken by the sudden and violent loss of the prolific director.
Feldman's Previous Tribute to His Former Director
Following Reiner's death, Feldman issued a heartfelt statement expressing his shock and grief. He posted on X, again in all capital letters, recalling the director's significant impact during the filming of 'Stand By Me'. "I just want to add that even though I barely kept in touch with Rob, his influence in my life over the months we spent every single day together was massive and powerful for a pre-teen boy who was looking for family in everyone I met," Feldman wrote. He described Reiner as "a great man who showed us all love and compassion in a meaningful way, which is how he built the bond and the trust with us four kid actors that pulled the human and emotional performances out of us."
The Academy has not provided an immediate response to requests for comment regarding Feldman's allegations about being left out of the tribute. The upcoming Oscars ceremony will proceed with its planned homage to Rob Reiner, a figure whose work left an indelible mark on Hollywood, even as one of his most famous young actors plans a separate, personal commemoration.
