YouTube has secured exclusive streaming rights for the Oscars beginning in 2029, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced on Wednesday. The Google-owned platform outbid competitors, including longtime broadcaster ABC, which has hosted the awards since 1976 except for a brief period in the early 1970s.
The agreement covers the 101st Oscars in 2029 and extends through 2033. ABC will continue airing the ceremony through 2028. Financial details were not disclosed. The Oscars will stream live and free to more than 2 billion viewers worldwide on YouTube, plus to YouTube TV subscribers in the United States.
Oscar viewership has declined from a peak of 55 million in 1998 to about 20 million in recent years. This shift aims to broaden audience reach amid falling television ratings.
“We are thrilled to enter into a multifaceted global partnership with YouTube to be the future home of the Oscars and our year-round Academy programming,” said Academy CEO Bill Kramer and Academy President Lynette Howell Taylor 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 — which will be beneficial for our Academy members and the film community.”
YouTube’s coverage will include the ceremony, red carpet arrivals, behind-the-scenes content, nominations announcement, interviews with Academy members and filmmakers, Governors Ball access, film education programs, podcasts, and additional programming.
“The Oscars are one of our essential cultural institutions, honoring excellence in storytelling and artistry,” said YouTube CEO Neal Mohan. “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.”
