The Oscars Are Exiting ABC and Broadcast Live on YouTube Starting in 2029.
The Academy Awards will commence airing only on the global video platform in 2029, representing the most recent major change in the film industry.
The organization behind the Oscars made the announcement on Wednesday, confirming that it entered into a extended contract granting the streaming service the unique international license to the Oscars until 2033.
The Oscars, set for March 15th, has been televised for five decades on ABC. Beginning in 2029, the event will be viewable in real-time without charge on the digital platform.
This is one more major upheaval in the entertainment world, which is grappling with studio sales and mergers, coupled with drastic reductions in filming.
"Our Academy represents an global institution, and this alliance will permit us to broaden reach to the work of the Academy to the largest worldwide audience possible - which will be positive for our Academy members and the film community," stated Academy leadership in a release.
Over decades, audience numbers of the awards show have fallen, though there was a slight uptick in 2025, with a significant number of younger viewers tuning in from cell phones and computers.
In a related comment, the video platform's chief executive referred to the Oscars "one of our vital cultural institutions" and noted that teaming up with the Academy would "inspire a fresh wave of creativity and film lovers while adhering to the Oscars' storied legacy".
ABC, which has televised the awards since the mid-1970s, said that it was excited "to the next three telecasts" it will retain rights for.
This shift coincides with film industry giants confront intricate takeover attempts. Both options were seen as unfavourable for an industry that has witnessed severe reductions over the last few years.
In common with major studios, cable networks have faced issues as the public has chosen digital platforms instead.
YouTube obtaining the license to the Academy Awards further suggests that dependence on online services will persist increasing.
