Bridesmaids star reveals surprising reason why she missed cast's on-stage reunion at the Oscars

The Bridesmaids cast enjoyed a reunion at the 2026 Oscars, thrilling fans of the 2011 comedy film. 

Stars Melissa McCarthy, Rose Byrne, Kristen Wiig, Maya Rudolph and Ellie Kemper appeared on stage to present the award for Best Original Score during the ceremony in Los Angeles on Sunday.

But there was one glaring absence – castemate Wendi McLendon-Covey. Now, she's revealed the surprising reason why.

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Sharing a refreshingly honest post on her official Instagram account, the actress, 56, wrote: "In response to some of the dms I'm getting: I had a neck lift last week because I'm tired of looking like a melting candle.

"So I had to skip the Academy Awards. No drama. Everything is fine ?."

Watch the video above.

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Rose McGowan commented underneath, writing: "Yes to a gorgeous neck and honesty [clap emoji]."

Supermodel Paulina Porizkova added: "Hope you recover easily!"

In Bridesmaids, McLendon-Covey portrayed the character of Rita, a member of Lillian's (Mara Rudolph) bridal party.

During the on-stage reunion, Byrne read out a fake note that mentioned Leonardo DiCaprio, who was sitting in the audience. 

"'Rose, can you please stop looking at me? The eye contact is too much. I'm thinking of leaving. I'm very uncomfortable. Sincerely, Leonardo DiCaprio,'" she read out, to laughs from the audience.

"I apologise. I have been staring at you. I thought you were somebody else," Byrne quipped.

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The Aussie star, 46, was nominated for her very first Oscar for Best Actress in a Leading Role for her performance in If I Had Legs I'd Kick You.

However, the award went to Irish star Jessie Buckley for Hamnet.

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