The Academy Awards Will Leave Broadcast TV and Broadcast Live on the Video Platform Beginning in the Year 2029.
The Oscars ceremony will begin airing only on the global video platform in the year 2029, representing the newest substantial change in Hollywood.
The organization behind the Oscars declared the decision on Wednesday, stating that it entered into a multi-year deal awarding the streaming service the sole worldwide broadcasting rights to the Oscars up to 2033.
The awards show, which is planned for 15 March, has been televised for 50 years on the traditional network. Commencing in 2029, the ceremony will be viewable in real-time without charge on the digital platform.
This is a further major upheaval in Hollywood, which is navigating company buyouts and fusions, along with drastic reductions in filming.
"Our Academy represents an international organization, and this collaboration will enable us to broaden reach to the mission of the Academy to the largest worldwide audience possible - which will be positive for our film artists and the cinematic world," said organization heads in a statement.
Throughout a long period, audience numbers of the televised event have dropped, although there was a minor increase in 2025, with a significant number of youthful audiences streaming from mobile devices and desktops.
In a separate statement, YouTube's CEO called the Oscars "one of our essential cultural touchstones" and added that teaming up with the Academy would "spark a younger cohort of innovation and film lovers while staying true to the Oscars' illustrious heritage".
ABC, which has televised the ceremony since 1976, stated that it was excited "to hosting the event three more times" it will retain rights for.
The move follows large entertainment companies deal with challenging merger discussions. Such proposals were seen as unfavourable for an industry that has experienced drastic cuts over the last few years.
Like major studios, traditional TV channels have struggled as the viewers has increasingly opted for digital platforms as an alternative.
YouTube obtaining broadcasting rights to the Academy Awards clearly signals that reliance on digital platforms will continue increasing.
