In a move signaling a seismic shift in Hollywood, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has announced that the Oscars will leave ABC and stream exclusively on YouTube beginning in 2029. This historic multi-year deal grants YouTube global rights to the Academy Awards through 2033, marking the first time the legendary awards show will be accessible live and for free on a major streaming platform.
For over fifty years, ABC has been the home of the Oscars, broadcasting the glamorous event that celebrates the very best in filmmaking. But as the entertainment landscape evolves, traditional television networks are facing stiff competition from online platforms. With this new partnership, the Academy aims to expand its reach to a global audience, opening doors for fans everywhere to experience the glitz and excitement of Hollywood’s most iconic night.
“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,” said Academy CEO Bill Kramer and President Lynette Howell Taylor. “This move will benefit both our Academy members and the broader film community.”
The decision comes amidst broader changes in Hollywood, including studio mergers, sales, and significant production budget cuts. Over the decades, Oscars viewership has generally declined, though recent years, particularly 2025, saw a modest resurgence as younger audiences tuned in through phones and computers. By moving to YouTube, the Academy hopes to capture this digital-savvy audience on a larger scale.
YouTube CEO Neal Mohan hailed the collaboration as a perfect match, stating, “The Oscars are one of our essential cultural institutions. Partnering with the Academy will inspire a new generation of creativity and film lovers while honoring the storied legacy of the awards.”
While ABC will continue to host the next three telecasts before 2029, the network expressed excitement for the remaining broadcasts, acknowledging the end of an era. “We look forward to celebrating Hollywood’s finest for the next three years on ABC,” a spokesperson said.
This transition also reflects broader industry trends. Just as Warner Bros Discovery recently resisted a hostile takeover attempt from Paramount Skydance and Netflix, Hollywood is increasingly turning toward streaming platforms as traditional cable and studio models face pressure from changing viewer habits. The Oscars’ move to YouTube is a clear signal that streaming is no longer just an option—it’s the future of entertainment distribution.
For movie lovers worldwide, this shift promises greater accessibility and the chance to witness cinematic history live from any device. By 2029, logging onto YouTube might just be the new red carpet.