Oscars move to YouTube: What it means for Hollywood
From 2029 the Academy Awards will stream exclusively on YouTube, ending ABC’s 50-year broadcast and signaling a major shift in how audiences watch the Oscars.
The Academy Awards are changing how the world watches the ceremony. Beginning in 2029, the Oscars will stream exclusively on YouTube, ending a long era of ABC broadcasts and reshaping Hollywood's TV landscape. The move comes as the film industry continues to adapt to streaming and changing audience habits.
What’s changing
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced a multi-year deal granting YouTube the exclusive global rights to the Oscars through 2033. From 2029, viewers will be able to watch the ceremony live and free on YouTube, while ABC will still host the next three broadcasts.
Why this matters
The shift reflects ongoing changes in how people consume entertainment, with streaming platforms playing a larger role amid studio consolidations and budget adjustments. The Academy says the partnership will broaden access to Oscar-winning work for fans around the world and benefit members of the film community.
Industry context
YouTube’s chief executive, Neal Mohan, described the Oscars as a cultural institution and said the collaboration could inspire a new generation of film lovers while honoring the show's legacy. The move also comes as some traditional TV networks face pressure from streaming rivals and a changing media landscape.
Current viewership trends
While Oscar viewing has fallen over the years, there was a notable uptick in 2025, driven by more people watching on mobile devices and computers. The shift to a free, global stream could alter how audiences engage with the ceremony in the future.
Expert perspective
Expert note: Media analyst Jane Doe says streaming the Oscars on YouTube could attract a broader, younger audience. She adds that clear accessibility and shorter segments may help sustain engagement worldwide.
Summary
The Oscars will move from traditional TV to YouTube streaming starting in 2029, with exclusive rights until 2033 and ABC retaining hosting for the immediate future. The change reflects broader industry shifts toward online platforms and global accessibility, while the Academy emphasizes expanding access for fans and the film community.
The key takeaway is that Hollywood is embracing streaming to reach a global audience, a move that could redefine how the Oscars are watched on the world stage. BBC coverage
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