The Oscars Will Leave Broadcast TV and Broadcast Live on the Video Platform Starting in the Year 2029.
The Oscars ceremony will begin streaming exclusively on the global video platform in 2029, marking the latest significant change in the film industry.
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences made the announcement on this week, confirming that it signed a long-term agreement granting the streaming service the sole worldwide broadcasting rights to the Oscars through 2033.
The Oscars, set for 15 March, has been broadcast for 50 years on the traditional network. Commencing in 2029, the ceremony will be viewable live and for free on YouTube.
This is one more substantial restructuring in Hollywood, which is dealing with corporate acquisitions and consolidations, in addition to severe reductions in filming.
"Our Academy represents an worldwide body, and this alliance will enable us to broaden reach to the work of the Academy to the biggest global viewership possible - which will be positive for our membership and the film community," stated Academy leadership in a announcement.
Throughout a long period, ratings of the ceremony have dropped, although there was a slight uptick in 2025, with a notable portion of Gen Z and millennial watchers tuning in from cell phones and computers.
In a related comment, YouTube's CEO described the Oscars "one of our fundamental cultural institutions" and noted that teaming up with the Academy would "motivate a fresh wave of artistic expression and film lovers while adhering to the Oscars' illustrious legacy".
The broadcast network, which has televised the awards since the mid-1970s, stated that it was eagerly anticipating "to the upcoming broadcasts" it will continue to air.
The move coincides with major studios confront complex corporate battles. Such proposals were seen as problematic for an industry that has seen severe reductions over the past several years.
Like big production houses, cable networks have struggled as the viewers has chosen digital platforms instead.
YouTube obtaining broadcasting rights to the Oscars clearly signals that reliance on online services will persist increasing.
