The Academy Awards, popularly known as the Oscars, are set for a major transformation in how audiences around the world watch the prestigious ceremony. Starting in 2029, the Oscars will move to YouTube under a new multi-year global partnership between the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and the video streaming platform. The agreement will begin with the 101st Oscars ceremony and continue through 2033, while ABC will retain broadcast rights through 2028.
This shift marks a historic moment for one of Hollywood’s longest-running televised events and reflects broader changes in media consumption, audience behavior, and global accessibility.
A Strategic Shift from Television to Digital Streaming
For decades, the Oscars have been synonymous with traditional television broadcasting, particularly through ABC. However, viewership trends have been changing steadily. Linear TV audiences have declined worldwide, especially among younger viewers who increasingly prefer on-demand and digital platforms over scheduled broadcasts.
YouTube’s massive global reach offers the Academy an opportunity to meet audiences where they already are. With billions of active users across countries and devices, YouTube provides instant access to a far larger and more diverse audience than conventional television ever could. The move allows the Oscars to remain culturally relevant in an era dominated by streaming and mobile viewing.
Free Global Access and Expanded Coverage
Under the new deal, the Oscars will be streamed live and free on YouTube worldwide. In the United States, the ceremony will also be available to YouTube TV subscribers. Beyond the main awards show, the platform will host extensive Oscars-related programming, including red carpet coverage, behind-the-scenes footage, and content from the Governors Ball.
This expanded digital presence enables the Academy to turn the Oscars into a broader global event rather than a single-night television broadcast. Viewers will be able to engage with the ceremony before, during, and after the event, increasing overall reach and engagement.
Free Global Access and Expanded Coverage
Under the new deal, the Oscars will be streamed live and free on YouTube worldwide. In the United States, the ceremony will also be available to YouTube TV subscribers. Beyond the main awards show, the platform will host extensive Oscars-related programming, including red carpet coverage, behind-the-scenes footage, and content from the Governors Ball.
This expanded digital presence enables the Academy to turn the Oscars into a broader global event rather than a single-night television broadcast. Viewers will be able to engage with the ceremony before, during, and after the event, increasing overall reach and engagement.
What the Academy and YouTube Have Said
Academy CEO Bill Kramer and Academy President Lynette Howell Taylor described the partnership as a way to expand access to Academy programming and celebrate cinema on an unprecedented global scale. They noted that the collaboration will benefit Academy members, filmmakers, and the wider film community while preserving the Oscars’ legacy.
YouTube CEO Neal Mohan echoed these sentiments, calling the Oscars a vital cultural institution. He stated that bringing the ceremony to YouTube will help inspire new generations of filmmakers and film lovers while staying true to the event’s long-standing tradition and prestige.
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