The Oscars Will Leave Broadcast TV and Stream on YouTube Beginning in the Year 2029.
The Oscars ceremony will begin broadcasting solely on the global video platform in 2029, representing the most recent significant change in Hollywood.
The organization behind the Oscars declared the decision on Wednesday, stating that it entered into a multi-year deal awarding YouTube the unique international license to the Oscars through 2033.
The awards show, set for 15 March, has been televised for 50 years on ABC. Commencing in 2029, the show will be accessible live and for free on YouTube.
It's one more major shakeup in the entertainment world, which is dealing with studio sales and mergers, along with drastic reductions in filming.
"The Academy is an worldwide body, and this alliance will enable us to expand access to the work of the Academy to the most extensive international crowd possible - which will be positive for our Academy members and the film community," said Academy leadership in a statement.
Over decades, ratings of the televised event have declined, although there was a minor increase in 2025, with a considerable amount of youthful audiences tuning in from cell phones and laptops.
In a corresponding announcement, YouTube's CEO described the Oscars "one of our vital cultural touchstones" and added that partnering with the Academy would "spark a fresh wave of artistic expression and movie fans while staying true to the Oscars' storied legacy".
The broadcast network, which has televised the ceremony since the mid-1970s, commented that it was excited "to the upcoming broadcasts" it will retain rights for.
This decision comes as film industry giants confront intricate takeover attempts. Such proposals were viewed as problematic for an sector that has witnessed severe reductions over the past several years.
Similar to major studios, cable networks have encountered challenges as the viewers has shifted towards on-demand video instead.
YouTube obtaining broadcasting rights to the Academy Awards clearly signals that dependence on digital platforms will carry on increasing.