Oscars to Stream on YouTube From 2029, Leaving ABC

The Academy Awards are shifting to YouTube in 2029 after about 50 years on broadcast television. The Academy signed a multi-year deal granting YouTube exclusive global rights to the Oscars through 2033, with the ceremony streamed live and free starting in 2029.

What changes for viewers

ABC has aired the Oscars since 1976, but starting with the 2029 edition, the ceremony will not be broadcast on the network. The move reflects the broader trend of streaming becoming the primary home for major events, driven by costs, audience habits, and technology shifts.

Leadership remarks

The Academy’s leadership described the partnership as a way to broaden access to the work of the Academy and its members, reaching a global audience and supporting the film community.YouTube’s chief executive welcomed the deal, calling the Oscars a vital cultural institution and saying it would help inspire a new generation of filmmakers while preserving the event’s legacy.

Industry context

Viewership for the Oscars has declined over the years, though there was a small rebound in 2025 as more viewers watched on mobile devices. The deal comes as media companies reorganize assets, with Warner Bros. Discovery urging shareholders to reject a competing bid and Netflix mentioned as an option. The shift to streaming for the Oscars underscores a broader move toward online viewing for live events.

Expert perspective

Expert comment: A media industry analyst says the switch to YouTube mirrors a wider shift toward streaming, expanding global reach but altering advertising and sponsorship dynamics. The analyst notes the platform could attract younger audiences while keeping the Oscars’ legacy intact.

What’s next

ABC will still host the next three ceremonies, but the long-term plan points to a streaming-first era for Hollywood’s biggest night.

Summary

The Academy will stream the Oscars on YouTube starting in 2029, ending ABC’s five-decade run as the broadcaster. The strategy aims to reach a global audience free of charge, reflecting the industry’s ongoing move toward streaming. As studios recalibrate, the Oscars’ new home on YouTube embodies a broader trend toward online access for major live events.

Key takeaway: The move to YouTube signals a streaming-first approach for marquee live events, expanding global reach while reshaping sponsorship and broadcast dynamics. Source: BBC News

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