YouTube Wins Exclusive Oscars Streaming Rights in Historic Broadcast Shakeup

The Oscars are leaving broadcast television. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences confirmed a landmark deal on Wednesday. YouTube secured exclusive global streaming rights starting in 2029.

This move ends ABC’s decades-long run as the ceremony’s home. The network has broadcast the awards since 1961. The shift to a free, digital platform marks a pivotal moment for live event television.

Deal Details Signal a New Era for Awards Shows

YouTube’s first Oscars will be the 101st ceremony in 2029. The multi-year partnership runs through 2033. ABC will continue its final broadcasts until 2028.

Financial terms were not publicly disclosed. The deal is far more than a simple broadcast shift. It includes red carpet coverage, behind-the-scenes content, and year-round Academy programming.

According to the Academy’s official announcement, the goal is massive global reach. YouTube’s platform is accessible to over 2 billion users worldwide. This directly addresses the show’s declining linear TV ratings.

Broader Impact on Audiences and the Industry

The decision reflects a fundamental change in media consumption. Streaming platforms are aggressively pursuing prestige live events. This is the first time a major awards show will abandon traditional broadcast entirely.

For viewers, access becomes universal and free. Anyone with an internet connection can watch the ceremony live. YouTube TV subscribers in the U.S. will also have access through their service.

The long-term effects on advertising and ceremony format remain to be seen. However, the move undoubtedly empowers YouTube in the competitive streaming landscape. It sets a new precedent for how cultural tentpoles are distributed.

This exclusive Oscars streaming deal solidifies YouTube’s position as a premier live-event destination. The historic shift from ABC underscores the unstoppable rise of digital platforms. The future of award show viewing is now firmly online.

Info at your fingertips

Q1: When will YouTube start streaming the Oscars?

YouTube will first stream the Oscars in 2029 for the 101st ceremony. The current deal with ABC remains in place until 2028.

Q2: Do I need a paid subscription to watch on YouTube?

No. The Academy confirmed the ceremony will be available live and for free globally on YouTube’s main platform. YouTube TV is a separate, paid option in the U.S.

Q3: Why did the Academy make this change?

Officials cited the desire for a larger global audience. Oscar ratings on traditional TV have fallen significantly from their peak, making a digital-first strategy appealing.

Q4: What else is included in the YouTube deal?

Beyond the main show, the deal covers red carpet events, nomination announcements, behind-the-scenes content, interviews, and educational film programs.

Q5: Has a streamer ever done this with a major awards show before?

While Netflix streams the SAG Awards, this is the first time one of the “big four” awards (Emmys, Grammys, Oscars, Tonys) has moved entirely from broadcast to a streaming platform.

Q6: What happens to the Oscars on ABC?

ABC will broadcast the Oscars as usual for the next few years. Its existing contract runs through the 2028 ceremony, which will be its final broadcast.