"Oscar" leaves television: the ceremony will move to YouTube in 2029
Kyiv • UNN
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced that starting in 2029, YouTube will hold exclusive global broadcasting rights for the Academy Awards ceremony. This is the first time that one of the "Big Four" awards has abandoned classic television broadcasting in favor of a digital platform.
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has announced a historic change of broadcaster: the world's main film award is leaving ABC. Starting in 2029 and at least until 2033, YouTube will hold exclusive global rights to broadcast the ceremony, the red carpet, and the nomination announcements. This was reported by the Associated Press, writes UNN.
Details
This is the first time in history that an award from the "Big Four" (Oscar, Grammy, Emmy, Tony) has completely abandoned classic television broadcasting in favor of a digital platform.
Global reach and multilingualism
The transition to Google will allow reaching an audience of 2 billion viewers. The "Oscar" will be available for free worldwide with subtitles and audio tracks in many languages. The Academy's leadership explains this step by the desire for globalization.
We are excited to embark on a multifaceted global partnership with YouTube to be the future home of the Academy Awards and our year-round Academy programs
According to them, this will expand access to the award for the largest global audience.
End of the ABC era
ABC, owned by Disney, has broadcast the award since 1961. The agreement with the channel will last for another three years, ending with the 100th anniversary ceremony in 2028. Despite a gradual increase in ratings (19.7 million viewers in 2025), the Academy chose the path of streaming.
YouTube CEO Neal Mohan emphasized: "Partnering with the Academy to bring this celebration of art and entertainment to viewers around the world will inspire a new generation of creativity and cinephiles while staying true to the legendary legacy of the Oscars."