The Oscars Will Leave Broadcast TV and Stream on the Video Platform Beginning in the Year 2029.
The Academy Awards will commence streaming exclusively on YouTube in 2029, representing the most recent substantial change in Hollywood.
The organization behind the Oscars revealed the news on this week, stating that it signed a multi-year deal giving the streaming service the unique international license to the Oscars until 2033.
The Oscars, set for 15 March, has aired for 50 years on ABC. Commencing in 2029, the event will be accessible live and for free on the digital platform.
This is a further significant shakeup in Hollywood, which is grappling with company buyouts and fusions, coupled with severe production cuts.
"The Academy is an global institution, and this alliance will permit us to expand access to the activities of the Academy to the biggest global viewership imaginable - which will be positive for our film artists and the cinematic world," said Academy leadership in a release.
For many years, viewership of the ceremony have fallen, even if there was a minor increase in 2025, with a notable portion of youthful audiences watching from smartphones and computers.
In a related comment, YouTube's CEO described the Oscars "one of our vital cultural institutions" and added that partnering with the Academy would "motivate a fresh wave of creativity and film lovers while staying true to the Oscars' storied heritage".
ABC, which has streamed the awards since 1976, stated that it was excited "to the next three telecasts" it will continue to air.
This decision coincides with large entertainment companies deal with challenging merger discussions. Such proposals were seen as problematic for an business that has experienced severe reductions over the recent period.
In common with major studios, cable networks have faced issues as the viewers has chosen digital platforms instead.
YouTube winning rights to the Academy Awards strongly indicates that dependence on online services will persist increasing.
