The Academy Awards paid a heartfelt tribute to the late Russian opposition leader, Aleksei A. Navalny, during the in memoriam segment of the ceremony. The segment opened with a clip from the Oscar-winning documentary “Navalny,” honoring his legacy and the impact he had on the world.
The telecast also remembered other notable figures from the film industry who passed away since the previous Oscars ceremony. Stars like Harry Belafonte, Chita Rivera, and filmmakers like Norman Jewison were honored for their contributions to the industry.
To accompany the tributes, the legendary tenor Andrea Bocelli performed “Time to Say Goodbye” with a new orchestration by Hans Zimmer, alongside his son, Matteo Bocelli.
Among the figures the Academy honored were acclaimed actor Alan Arkin, film and theater actor Andre Braugher, Irish-born actor Michael Gambon, director William Friedkin, screenwriter Bo Goldman, Oscar winner Glenda Jackson, actress Piper Laurie, jazz bassist Bill Lee, stand-up comic Richard Lewis, movie star Ryan O’Neal, “Friends” star Matthew Perry, comic actor Paul Reubens, action hero Richard Roundtree, composer Ryuichi Sakamoto, pop sensation Tina Turner, and former pro linebacker Carl Weathers.
The in memoriam segment was a touching tribute to those who have left a lasting impact on the film industry and will be remembered for their contributions for years to come.
