The Oscars, the most prestigious event in the entertainment industry, is set for a monumental shift. Starting in 2029, the Oscars will be exclusively streamed on YouTube, marking the end of a five-decade-long tenure on ABC. This transition, which includes the Governors Awards and the Oscar nominations announcement, signals a significant change in how the Academy Awards will be experienced globally.
The partnership between the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and YouTube, announced in 2025, grants YouTube the exclusive global rights to all Oscars events from 2029 to 2033. This multi-year deal is a strategic move to reach a broader and more digitally savvy audience, reflecting the evolving landscape of entertainment consumption.
YouTube's platform will host live streaming of the Oscars ceremony, red-carpet coverage, and behind-the-scenes content, all free to viewers worldwide. This move aligns with the growing trend of streaming services and digital platforms becoming the go-to sources for major events, providing a more accessible and interactive experience for fans.
This shift is not just a change in broadcasting platforms but also a testament to the Oscars's adaptability in the digital age. By partnering with YouTube, the Academy aims to engage with a younger demographic and tap into the vast user base of the world's largest video-sharing platform. The decision to move to YouTube was influenced by the platform's reach and the potential to create a more dynamic and inclusive awards experience.
The move to YouTube is expected to enhance the accessibility of the Oscars, making it easier for fans around the world to tune in and celebrate the achievements of the film industry. The Academy's decision to stream the Oscars on YouTube is a bold step towards the future, embracing the digital revolution and ensuring that the world's most prestigious awards show remains relevant and accessible to all.
