The Academy Awards Will Leave Broadcast TV and Broadcast Live on the Video Platform Beginning in 2029.
The Oscars ceremony will begin broadcasting solely on the global video platform in the year 2029, marking the newest substantial change in the film industry.
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences declared the decision on this week, indicating that it signed a extended contract giving the streaming service the unique international license to the Oscars up to 2033.
The Oscars, which is planned for 15 March, has been televised for 50 years on the traditional network. Starting in 2029, the ceremony will be available in real-time without charge on the digital platform.
It's one more significant shakeup in Hollywood, which is navigating corporate acquisitions and consolidations, in addition to steep slashes to movie budgets.
"Our Academy represents an global institution, and this alliance will allow us to increase availability to the work of the Academy to the biggest global viewership imaginable - which will be advantageous for our film artists and the film community," said Academy leadership in a announcement.
For many years, ratings of the awards show have declined, although there was a minor increase in 2025, with a significant number of younger viewers tuning in from cell phones and laptops.
In a separate statement, YouTube's CEO referred to the Oscars "a key essential pillars of culture" and noted that working with the Academy would "spark a new generation of artistic expression and cinema enthusiasts while remaining faithful to the Oscars' celebrated heritage".
ABC, which has aired the ceremony since 1976, stated that it was excited "to hosting the event three more times" it will continue to air.
The move follows major studios face complex corporate battles. Such proposals were considered problematic for an industry that has witnessed significant downsizing over the last few years.
Like major studios, traditional TV channels have struggled as the viewers has shifted towards streaming services instead.
YouTube obtaining rights to the Oscars further suggests that dependence on online services will persist increasing.
