The Oscars to Depart Broadcast TV and Stream on YouTube Starting in 2029.
The Oscars ceremony will begin airing only on the global video platform in 2029, signaling the latest significant shift in the film industry.
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences revealed the news on Wednesday, confirming that it signed a multi-year deal granting YouTube the unique international license to the Oscars through 2033.
The awards show, set for 15 March, has been broadcast for five decades on the traditional network. Beginning in 2029, the ceremony will be available in real-time without charge on the digital platform.
It's a further significant restructuring in the entertainment world, which is grappling with company buyouts and fusions, along with severe production cuts.
"The Academy is an worldwide body, and this alliance will allow us to expand access to the work of the Academy to the largest worldwide audience imaginable - which will be beneficial for our membership and the cinematic world," remarked Academy leadership in a announcement.
Over decades, ratings of the televised event have declined, although there was a slight uptick in 2025, with a considerable amount of Gen Z and millennial watchers watching from smartphones and desktops.
In a corresponding announcement, YouTube's CEO described the Oscars "a key vital cultural touchstones" and said that teaming up with the Academy would "inspire a younger cohort of artistic expression and film lovers while staying true to the Oscars' illustrious history".
The broadcast network, which has aired the awards since 1976, stated that it was looking forward "to the next three telecasts" it will retain rights for.
This shift coincides with large entertainment companies confront intricate takeover attempts. Such proposals were considered concerning for an business that has seen drastic cuts over the recent period.
Similar to big production houses, traditional TV channels have struggled as the audience has shifted towards streaming services as an alternative.
YouTube winning rights to the Academy Awards further suggests that dependence on digital platforms will carry on increasing.
