YouTube Secures Exclusive Global Rights to Stream Oscars

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences confirmed on Wednesday that it has reached an agreement to move the Oscars to YouTube. Beginning in 2029, the Google-owned video platform will serve as the exclusive global host for the Academy Awards, marking a definitive transition from traditional broadcast television to a streaming-first model.

A Historic Shift in Broadcasting

This deal concludes a partnership with ABC that has lasted since 1961, barring a brief hiatus in the early 1970s. While ABC will retain the rights to air the ceremony through 2028, YouTube will take over for the 101st Oscars in 2029, with a contract extending through 2033. Financial details regarding the agreement remain undisclosed.

The move represents a significant milestone for the industry. While other platforms have dabbled in awards shows—such as Netflix’s acquisition of the SAG Awards—the Oscars will be the first of the major “big four” ceremonies (including the Emmys, Grammys, and Tonys) to abandon linear television entirely for a digital-native platform.

Expanding Global Reach

The Academy’s decision arrives as the ceremony seeks to reverse a long-term decline in viewership, which dropped from a 1998 peak of 55 million to approximately 20 million in recent years. By moving to YouTube, the event gains access to a global user base exceeding 2 billion people.

The partnership encompasses more than just the live ceremony. The agreement covers a wide range of content, including:

• Red carpet coverage and behind-the-scenes footage.
• The live announcement of Oscar nominations.
• Exclusive interviews with filmmakers and Academy members.
• Access to the Governors Ball and various film education initiatives.
• Original podcasts and additional year-round programming.

Leadership Perspectives

Academy CEO Bill Kramer and President Lynette Howell Taylor emphasized the global necessity of the move in a joint statement: “The Academy is an international organization, and this partnership will allow us to expand access to the work of the Academy to the largest worldwide audience possible.”

YouTube CEO Neal Mohan highlighted the platform’s role in preserving the event’s stature while modernizing its delivery. “The Oscars are one of our essential cultural institutions, honoring excellence in storytelling and artistry,” Mohan stated. “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.”

Viewers worldwide will be able to access the ceremony for free, while those in the United States will also have access via YouTube TV subscriptions.