In 2029, the telecast of the “Oscars” will shift from broadcasting to streaming, and subsequently from ABC to YouTube—a pivotal moment for the entertainment sector.
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced Wednesday that YouTube secured a “multi-year agreement” for “exclusive global rights to the Oscars.”
The arrangement will be in effect until 2033.
This pact highlights a significant transition of influence within the media business, one that has been championed by YouTube and streaming services such as Netflix.
ABC, owned by Disney, has long been the venue for the Academy Awards ceremony. ABC will continue to air the awards show through 2028.
In recent weeks, the Academy had been marketing rights for future broadcasts, leading to speculation that a new purchaser from the major tech companies might emerge.
YouTube evidently surpassed ABC and other bidders, although specifics were not immediately disclosed.
YouTube CEO Neal Mohan stated, “The Oscars represent one of our most cherished cultural institutions, honoring mastery in storytelling and the arts. Partnering with the Academy to bring this celebration of artistry and entertainment to audiences worldwide will inspire a new era of creativity and film lovers, while remaining true to the iconic legacy of the Academy Awards.”
Mohan’s acknowledgment of the Academy’s heritage will resonate in Hollywood, where creators are divided between preserving established modes of narration and embracing audience-centric platforms like YouTube and Netflix.
“Broadcasting the Oscars on YouTube is like shaking hands with the guy who is trying to kill you,” observed screenwriter David Cronenberg on X when the news broke.
YouTube would likely disagree. The platform has encouraged filmmakers to explore novel technologies and distribute projects through new avenues, and has previously explored funding original motion pictures.
Still, the “Oscars” primarily still honor theatrical releases, even as more viewers end up watching movies via streaming.
The 2025 Best Picture victor, “Anora,” premiered at the Cannes Film Festival, then hit cinemas, and arrived on Hulu several months later.
ABC, which has been the “proud home of the Oscars” for over fifty years, said in a statement: “We look forward to the next three telecasts, including the show’s centennial celebration in 2028, and wish the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences continued success.”
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