The Academy Awards to Depart Broadcast TV and Broadcast Live on the Video Platform Starting in 2029.
The Oscars ceremony will commence broadcasting solely on YouTube in 2029, representing the latest major shift in Hollywood.
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences declared the decision on Wednesday, stating that it finalized a long-term agreement giving YouTube the sole worldwide broadcasting rights to the Oscars until 2033.
The awards show, scheduled for March 15th, has been televised for five decades on ABC. Commencing in 2029, the event will be viewable live and for free on the digital platform.
This is one more substantial restructuring in the entertainment world, which is navigating corporate acquisitions and consolidations, in addition to drastic reductions in filming.
"Our Academy represents an international organization, and this collaboration will enable us to expand access to the mission of the Academy to the largest worldwide audience attainable - which will be positive for our Academy members and the movie industry," remarked Academy leadership in a statement.
Over decades, audience numbers of the televised event have declined, although there was a small rise in 2025, with a significant number of youthful audiences watching from smartphones and laptops.
In a corresponding announcement, YouTube's CEO referred to the Oscars "among our fundamental cultural institutions" and noted that teaming up with the Academy would "motivate a fresh wave of artistic expression and film lovers while adhering to the Oscars' celebrated legacy".
The broadcast network, which has aired the awards since the mid-1970s, stated that it was excited "to the upcoming broadcasts" it will continue to air.
This decision comes as large entertainment companies face intricate takeover attempts. Both options were considered problematic for an industry that has witnessed significant downsizing over the last few years.
Similar to major studios, traditional TV channels have struggled as the public has chosen digital platforms as an alternative.
The platform securing rights to the Academy Awards strongly indicates that the dominance of online services will carry on increasing.
