In a groundbreaking move that signals a major shift in how prestigious awards ceremonies reach audiences, the Oscars will transition from traditional broadcast television to YouTube beginning in 2029. This landmark partnership grants the video streaming giant exclusive worldwide broadcasting rights for a four-year period extending through 2033, marking the end of an era for network television’s hold on Hollywood’s most glamorous night.
The comprehensive agreement encompasses far more than just the main ceremony itself. YouTube will deliver complete red carpet arrivals, exclusive behind-the-scenes footage, and unprecedented access to the prestigious Governors Ball. This expanded coverage aims to provide viewers with an immersive experience that goes beyond what traditional broadcasts have historically offered, potentially revolutionizing how audiences engage with the awards season.
Academy leadership expressed enthusiasm about the partnership’s potential for global reach. Bill Kramer, serving as CEO, and President Lynette Howell Taylor jointly emphasized the organization’s international character and the opportunity to connect with unprecedented worldwide audiences. The move aligns with the Academy’s recent efforts to diversify its voting membership, which now includes 21% international members residing outside the United States.
YouTube CEO Neal Mohan welcomed the collaboration as an opportunity to cultivate future generations of cinema enthusiasts while honoring the Oscars’ distinguished heritage. The platform’s growing dominance in streaming viewership makes it an increasingly formidable competitor to traditional television networks. Recent achievements include hosting the platform’s inaugural live NFL game, which attracted over 17 million viewers in September.
The transition represents a significant cultural moment as streaming platforms continue displacing conventional broadcast media. Disney’s ABC network, which has broadcast the ceremony for over fifty years, will host its final three ceremonies through 2028, including the centennial celebration. Industry analysts predict considerable reaction from Academy members, while audiences anticipate how this digital transformation will reshape Hollywood’s biggest night.