The Academy Awards are undergoing a major transformation: starting in 2029, the ceremony will stream exclusively on YouTube, ending a 53-year run on broadcast television with ABC. This change, officially announced on Wednesday, marks a significant shift in how Hollywood’s most prestigious event reaches its audience.
The End of an Era for Broadcast TV
For nearly half a century, ABC has been the traditional home of the Oscars, a partnership set to conclude in 2028. The Academy’s decision to move to YouTube is part of a multi-year deal (through 2033) that gives the platform exclusive streaming rights. This isn’t a sudden move; the Academy tested simultaneous livestreaming on ABC and Hulu during last year’s ceremony, signaling a willingness to experiment.
Why This Matters: Reaching a Wider Audience
The Oscars have faced declining viewership in recent years, a trend that threatens the event’s cultural relevance. Moving to YouTube is a strategic effort to counter this decline by reaching a global, digitally native audience. YouTube’s reach is enormous, potentially exposing the awards to viewers who don’t traditionally watch broadcast television.
The Academy’s leadership, CEO Bill Kramer and President Lynette Howell Taylor, emphasized that this partnership will expand access to the awards internationally, benefiting both members and the wider film community. Beyond the ceremony itself, YouTube will also stream red carpet coverage, behind-the-scenes content, and digitized exhibits from the Academy Museum.
What’s Next for the Oscars?
The 98th Academy Awards in 2026 will be the last to air on ABC before the full transition. The Academy’s centennial celebration in 2028 will also remain on traditional television, serving as a farewell to the broadcast era.
The move to YouTube is a bold step for the Oscars, designed to ensure the awards remain relevant in a rapidly changing media landscape. By embracing digital streaming, the Academy hopes to revitalize interest in the ceremony and secure its future for generations to come.
