YouTube Secures Exclusive Rights to Stream the Oscars Starting in 2029
In a significant shift for one of the biggest nights in Hollywood, YouTube has won exclusive streaming rights to the Oscars beginning in 2029, as announced by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences on Wednesday. This deal ends ABC’s longstanding tradition of broadcasting the awards show since 1976, except for a brief hiatus in the early 1970s.
The Future of the Oscars on YouTube
YouTube will debut its first Oscars show during the 101st ceremony in 2029, with the agreement set to last until 2033. Until then, ABC will continue to air the prestigious event through 2028.
While the financial specifics of the deal remain undisclosed, this announcement is indicative of shifting trends in television. As live streaming becomes increasingly popular for significant events, YouTube’s acquisition underscores its growing clout in the broadcasting arena. The ceremony will be accessible live and for free to over 2 billion viewers worldwide on YouTube, alongside subscribers of YouTube TV in the United States.
Counteracting Falling Ratings
The Oscars have witnessed a continuous decline in viewership, plummeting from a peak of 55 million viewers in 1998 to approximately 20 million in recent years. This trend has prompted the Academy to explore innovative ways to engage with audiences and rejuvenate interest in the iconic event.
Statements from the Academy
“We are thrilled to enter into a multifaceted global partnership with YouTube to be the future home of the Oscars and our year-round Academy programming,” stated Academy CEO Bill Kramer and Academy President Lynette Howell Taylor in a joint announcement. They emphasized the Academy’s commitment to expanding access to their initiatives for a larger global audience, which they believe will benefit both Academy members and the broader film community.
Comprehensive Coverage and Engagement
As part of the agreement, YouTube’s coverage will extend beyond merely broadcasting the ceremony. It will include red carpet coverage, behind-the-scenes content, the announcement of Oscar nominations, interviews with Academy members and filmmakers, access to the Governors Ball, film education programs, podcasts, and various other content.
YouTube CEO Neal Mohan remarked, “The Oscars are one of our essential cultural institutions, honoring excellence in storytelling and artistry. Partnering with the Academy to bring this celebration of art and entertainment to viewers all over the world will inspire a new generation of creativity and film lovers while staying true to the Oscars’ storied legacy.”
A New Era in Awards Show Broadcasting
This shift marks a notable departure from traditional broadcasting, being the first time that one of the major awards shows—Oscars, Emmys, Grammys, or Tonys—will move entirely away from broadcast television in favor of a streaming platform. While streaming services like Netflix have previously acquired rights to awards events such as the SAG Awards, the Oscars’ transition represents a monumental change in viewer accessibility and engagement.
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