Oscars to shift to YouTube, free worldwide stream from 2029

Oscars to shift to YouTube

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has signed a multi-year deal granting YouTube exclusive global streaming rights to the Oscars from 2029 through 2033, ending the ceremony’s long-standing broadcast on ABC, which will continue through its centennial in 2028.

Under this new arrangement, the Oscars will be streamed live and free worldwide on YouTube, including red carpet coverage and behind-the-scenes content.

The move is seen as a landmark moment for the film industry, reflecting YouTube’s growing influence.

As one of the most-watched annual events, the Oscars will now reach audiences globally via the world’s largest streaming platform, with features like closed captioning and multiple language audio tracks to engage the Academy’s expanding international viewership.

The Academy Awards CEO Bill Kramer and President Lynette Howell Taylor acknowledged the significance of the move, saying, "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," adding, "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—beneficial for our Academy members and the film community. This collaboration will leverage YouTube's vast reach and infuse the Oscars and other Academy programming with innovative opportunities for engagement while honoring our legacy."

Under the newly signed deal, YouTube will stream not only the Oscars ceremony—which brought in $150 million in revenue for the Academy in the fiscal year ending June 30, largely from its TV rights agreement with Disney—but also a wide range of related content.

YouTube CEO Neal Mohan commented, "The Oscars are one of our essential cultural institutions, honoring excellence in storytelling and artistry. 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."

Reactions to the move have been mixed. Some observers compare it to past media shifts, such as Fox acquiring NFL rights in the 1990s. Screenwriter Daniel Kunka quipped, “YouTube broadcasting the Oscars is like shaking hands with the guy who's trying to kill you,” highlighting the tension between traditional and digital platforms.

ABC responded, saying, “ABC has been the proud home to The Oscars for more than half a century. We look forward to the next three telecasts, including the show's centennial celebration in 2028, and wish the Academy continued success."