The Academy Awards are poised for a significant transformation in broadcast history, as YouTube has secured exclusive global streaming rights to the Oscars starting in 2029. This pivotal move ends ABC’s nearly 50-year relationship with Hollywood’s most celebrated awards ceremony, indicating the increasing influence of digital platforms in premium live entertainment.
ABC will maintain its rights to broadcast the Academy Awards until 2028, including the landmark 100th Oscars ceremony. However, from 2029 onward, YouTube will become the global home for the event, marking a significant departure from traditional network television. This change comes as ABC has sought to renegotiate lower fees amidst declining television ratings, concluding one of the longest-running broadcast partnerships in entertainment history.
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has confirmed that YouTube’s agreement encompasses full Oscars programming. This includes the main awards ceremony, red carpet coverage, backstage access, and the Governors Ball. Industry insiders suggest that this agreement is valued at over $100 million, with YouTube surpassing competitors such as Disney and NBCUniversal. Advertising will continue during the broadcast, preserving a crucial revenue stream for the Academy.
According to the agreement, international audiences will have the opportunity to view the Oscars for free on YouTube’s main platform. Meanwhile, YouTube TV subscribers in the United States will access the ceremony through their subscriptions. Academy leaders have expressed that this partnership will enhance the Oscars’ reach to the largest possible global audience. YouTube executives view the awards as a vital cultural institution and believe that this deal will attract a younger demographic and new film enthusiasts.
This Oscars agreement underscores a broader industry trend where streaming platforms are actively acquiring high-profile live events. Television ratings for the Oscars have significantly declined over the years, dropping from a peak of 57 million viewers in 1998 to just over 18 million in 2025. By transitioning to YouTube, the Academy aims to leverage digital reach and global accessibility to rejuvenate interest and relevance in an ever-evolving entertainment landscape.
Q1. When will YouTube start streaming the Oscars?
Answer: YouTube is set to begin streaming the Oscars globally from 2029, marking a historic shift in the event's broadcasting history.
Q2. How long is the YouTube streaming deal for the Oscars?
Answer: The agreement for YouTube to stream the Oscars will run from 2029 until 2033, ensuring global access to the awards.
Q3. What will happen to ABC's broadcasting rights?
Answer: ABC will maintain the rights to broadcast the Academy Awards through 2028, including the 100th Oscars ceremony.
Q4. How much is the YouTube deal reportedly worth?
Answer: The deal between YouTube and the Academy is estimated to be worth over $100 million, reflecting its significant value in the entertainment industry.
Q5. Will there be advertising during the YouTube stream of the Oscars?
Answer: Yes, advertising will continue during the YouTube broadcast of the Oscars, maintaining a vital revenue stream for the Academy.
Question 1: What year will YouTube start streaming the Oscars?
A) 2028
B) 2029
C) 2030
D) 2033
Correct Answer: B
Question 2: How much is the YouTube Oscars deal valued at?
A) $50 million
B) $75 million
C) $100 million
D) $150 million
Correct Answer: C
Question 3: Until what year does ABC retain broadcast rights for the Oscars?
A) 2025
B) 2026
C) 2028
D) 2030
Correct Answer: C
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