The Oscars to Air Exclusively on YouTube Starting in 2029
The famous Academy Awards will make a significant transition in 2029, as they will be broadcast exclusively on YouTube. This pivotal move marks the end of a longstanding relationship with ABC, as the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has entered into a multi-year agreement with YouTube, granting the platform global rights to the prestigious event until 2033.
Why It Matters
This change reflects a broader trend in the entertainment industry, as traditional television continues to grapple with declining viewership. By moving to YouTube, the Academy aims to reach a global audience more effectively, offering free live access to the Oscars. This shift could reshape how award shows connect with fans and adapt to an evolving media landscape.
Key Developments
- The Oscars will air live and for free on YouTube starting March 15, 2029.
- The new deal grants YouTube exclusive global rights to the ceremony until 2033.
- This transition follows a notable decline in Oscar ratings in 2025, mirroring trends seen in other prestigious award shows.
- Academy officials emphasized the partnership’s potential to expand access to a diverse audience.
Full Report
Details of the Agreement
The Academy announced the partnership on Wednesday, highlighting its commitment to making the Oscars more accessible to international audiences. Academy CEO Bill Kramer and Academy President Lynette Howell Taylor stated that this collaboration with YouTube will benefit Academy members and the broader film community.
Declining Ratings and Industry Trends
The shift to a digital platform comes as Oscar ratings experienced a drop in 2025, a trend also observed in several other award ceremonies, such as the Golden Globes and the Grammy Awards. This decline has prompted the Academy to seek new avenues for reaching viewers.
Context & Previous Events
The Oscars have been a fixture on ABC for over 50 years. The upcoming change marks a significant evolution in how one of Hollywood’s most celebrated events will be consumed by audiences. This shift occurs amid ongoing challenges facing the entertainment industry, including studio sales, mergers, and substantial production cuts.
