The Oscars Will Leave Broadcast TV and Stream on the Video Platform Beginning in 2029.
The Academy Awards will begin broadcasting solely on the global video platform in the year 2029, signaling the latest major change in Hollywood.
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences revealed the news on this week, stating that it signed a extended contract awarding YouTube the exclusive global rights to the Oscars through 2033.
The awards show, set for 15 March, has aired for 50 years on the traditional network. Commencing in 2029, the event will be accessible live and for free on the digital platform.
This is another major upheaval in the entertainment world, which is navigating studio sales and mergers, coupled with steep reductions in filming.
"The Academy is an global institution, and this alliance will enable us to expand access to the mission of the Academy to the largest worldwide audience possible - which will be positive for our Academy members and the cinematic world," said Academy leadership in a announcement.
Over decades, viewership of the awards show have declined, although there was a small rise in 2025, with a notable portion of youthful audiences watching from cell phones and laptops.
In a corresponding announcement, YouTube's CEO described the Oscars "among our essential pillars of culture" and said that partnering with the Academy would "inspire a fresh wave of innovation and movie fans while remaining faithful to the Oscars' storied history".
ABC, which has streamed the awards since the mid-1970s, commented that it was eagerly anticipating "to the next three telecasts" it will still host.
This decision comes as large entertainment companies confront complex corporate battles. Such proposals were considered unfavourable for an sector that has experienced drastic cuts over the recent period.
In common with big production houses, traditional TV channels have encountered challenges as the viewers has chosen streaming services instead.
YouTube winning the license to the Academy Awards strongly indicates that reliance on streaming sites will persist increasing.
