The Academy Awards telecast will move from ABC broadcast network to live streaming on YouTube starting in 2029. The change reflects shifting audience habits and the growing dominance of digital platforms.
End of ABC Broadcast Era
ABC, owned by Walt Disney, has aired the Oscars every year since 1976. However, ratings for the annual ceremony have steadily declined as viewers increasingly turn to streaming services. The 2025 Oscars attracted 19.7 million U.S. viewers, a five-year high, but far below its 57 million peak in 1998.
Although ABC made efforts to retain broadcasting rights, it faced challenges in turning a profit from the show. Financial details of the new agreement with YouTube have not been disclosed.
YouTube to Stream Oscars Globally
YouTube will provide the Oscars with closed captioning and audio tracks in multiple languages. This aims to make the ceremony accessible to a global audience. The agreement covers the Oscars from 2029 through 2033.
In addition to the main telecast, YouTube will stream associated events. These include the Academy’s Governors Awards and the Oscar nominees luncheon. Previously, these events were largely off-camera and accessible only to select attendees.
Statements from Leadership
YouTube CEO Neal Mohan called the Oscars “one of our essential cultural institutions,” emphasizing their impact on storytelling and artistry. Academy leadership also highlighted the benefits of YouTube’s global reach.
According to Academy CEO Bill Kramer and President Lynette Howell Taylor, the platform will help celebrate cinema and inspire new generations of filmmakers. They added that it will provide unprecedented access to film history worldwide.
Transition Period Before Streaming Move
ABC will continue broadcasting the Oscars in the United States through 2028, including the 100th anniversary ceremony. This gives the network time to adjust while the Academy prepares for the digital shift. The move represents a major evolution in how audiences experience one of the world’s most prestigious film awards.
Industry analysts note that shifting to streaming aligns with broader trends in entertainment. Audiences are increasingly seeking on-demand access, interactive features, and multi-language options, all of which YouTube can provide.
