The Oscars will move to YouTube starting in 2029, marking a significant shift in how the prestigious awards will be broadcasted to a global audience. This new agreement between the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and YouTube was announced on Wednesday, allowing viewers worldwide to access the ceremony for free via the ad-supported platform.
Currently, the US network ABC holds the broadcasting rights for the Oscars under a deal that runs until the 100th Academy Awards in 2028. Following this milestone, viewers will no longer need to rely on traditional broadcasters, as the Oscars will be streamed directly on YouTube, effectively reaching an audience of over two billion people.
This unprecedented move alters the long-standing model where the Academy licenses the Oscars to individual broadcasters in various countries. For instance, in Australia, the Oscars are presently licensed to Channel Seven, while previously they were shown by Channel Nine. The YouTube agreement consolidates global broadcasting into a single deal, removing barriers to access that have historically existed in many international markets.
Comprehensive Coverage and Exclusive Content
The new arrangement goes beyond the main event, also including a red carpet pre-show, behind-the-scenes content, live nominations announcements, and various Oscar-related events such as the Oscars Nominees Luncheon and the Scientific and Technical Oscars. The Academy also plans to introduce official Oscar podcasts and additional content that is currently under development.
Financial details of the deal have not been publicly disclosed, but industry insiders suggest the agreement is valued at “nine figures,” potentially amounting to hundreds of millions of dollars. In contrast, the existing agreement with ABC is estimated to be just below US$100 million (approximately $151 million).
Neal Mohan, YouTube’s chief executive, emphasized the cultural significance of the Oscars, stating, “Partnering with the Academy to bring this celebration of art and entertainment to viewers all over the world will inspire a new generation of creativity and film lovers while staying true to the Oscars’ storied legacy.”
This transition marks a pivotal moment for Hollywood, particularly as it grapples with the competitive pressures from streaming giants like Netflix and Paramount. The move to YouTube reflects a broader trend in the entertainment industry, as traditional models of distribution are increasingly challenged by digital platforms.
As the countdown to 2029 begins, the Academy and YouTube are poised to reshape how audiences engage with one of the film industry’s most beloved traditions, ensuring that the Oscars remain relevant in an ever-evolving media landscape.
