“Well, he’s not a movie star, you know?” Rhimes told Entertainment Weekly after the ceremony at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles on Sunday, March 15. “And I feel like when the Emmys come around, he will be (immortalized) the way he should be.”

The San Francisco native, best known for roles on “Grey’s Anatomy” and “Euphoria,” died on Feb. 19 after a years-long battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.

“We can’t fault the Oscars for the fact that they’re looking at movies,” Rhimes continued. “There were so many people who were lost, but Eric was unique to television and I can’t wait to see what they do with him (at the Emmys).”

The Primetime Emmys will be broadcast on NBC on Sept. 14.

Dane was one of many actors who didn’t make it to the televised tribute Sunday evening. Others included “Dawson’s Creek” star James Van Der Beek, whose last film “The Gates” was released in select theaters on Friday, March 13, French actor Brigitte Bardot and “Harold and Maude” actor Bud Cort.

On Monday, March 16, comedian and actor Bruce Vilanch also defended the Academy’s decision, making a similar point to Rhimes about Dane and others being better known for their television work.

“malcolm jamal, eric dane, van der beek — all tv actors, basically, and civilians forget this is about people who made their bones in movies,” he wrote in a Facebook post. “bud cort was a puzzle. it may be he passed after they had locked the reel. that happens once in a while.  perhaps they will rectify it next year.”

All stars, however, were featured in an extended “In Memoriam” tribute that lives on the Academy’s website.

Despite being excluded by the Academy, Dane’s memory has been honored by several of his Hollywood peers over the past month, including his “Grey’s Anatomy” co-star Patrick Dempsey, “Euphoria” castmate Sydney Sweeney and series creator Sam Levinson.

“He was truly a gifted actor whose portrayal of Dr. Mark Sloan left an indelible mark on the series and on audiences around the world,” Rhimes wrote of Dane on Instagram via her company account, Shondaland. “We are grateful for the artistry, spirit, friendship and humanity he shared with us for so many years. Our hearts are with his family, loved ones, and all who were touched by his work.”