Tony Todd's Widow Criticizes Emmys for Leaving Out Late Actor from In Memoriam Tribute

In a moment that has sparked disappointment among fans and industry insiders alike, the Emmy Awards are under fire for omitting beloved actor Tony Todd from their televised In Memoriam segment. Tony Todd's widow, Fatima Cortez Todd, has publicly expressed her frustration and sadness over the decision, saying it dishonored a man who made significant contributions to television and film. This controversy has stirred an emotional response from viewers and raises questions about how such tributes are handled by award shows.

Tony Todd Remembered for a Versatile Career

Tony Todd was widely recognized for his iconic role in the Candyman franchise, but his television resume was just as impressive. With memorable appearances in Star Trek, The Flash, 24, The Young and the Restless, Hercules and Boston Public, Todd carved out a respected career that spanned decades. His deep voice, commanding screen presence, and dedication to his craft earned him admiration from both fans and peers.

Despite this legacy, the actor was noticeably absent from the 2025 Emmys In Memoriam tribute aired during the ceremony. While his name did appear in a longer version posted to the Television Academy’s website, the televised omission did not go unnoticed.

Fatima Cortez Todd Speaks Out

In an emotional statement, Fatima Cortez Todd voiced her dismay, calling the omission "hurtful" and "disrespectful." She emphasized that her late husband gave his all to every role and deserved the same acknowledgment as his peers. “Tony was a classically trained actor who committed fully to his roles and brought joy to countless fans,” she said.

Cortez Todd also questioned the Emmy Awards' selection process for the tribute segment and urged for more transparency and inclusiveness moving forward.

Fans on social media echoed her sentiments, with many expressing disbelief that someone of Todd's stature was excluded. The Television Academy has not responded or issued a statement as of the publishing of this article.

A Call for Change

The controversy has reignited discussions about how the entertainment industry honors its late contributors. As Fatima Cortez Todd poignantly noted, legacies deserve to be remembered, not just online but on the main stage where their work was celebrated in life.

Tony Todd's widow calling out the Emmys sheds light on a larger issue within awards ceremonies. As viewers and fans continue to advocate for more inclusive and respectful tributes, one thing remains clear — the contributions of legendary actors like Tony Todd should never be overlooked.