The Oscars Are Exiting ABC and Stream on the Video Platform Beginning in 2029.
The Academy Awards will commence streaming exclusively on the global video platform in the year 2029, signaling the most recent substantial shift in the film industry.
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences revealed the news on Wednesday, confirming that it finalized a long-term agreement granting the streaming service the sole worldwide broadcasting rights to the Oscars through 2033.
The awards show, which is planned for 15 March, has aired for 50 years on ABC. Beginning in 2029, the event will be available as a free live stream on the digital platform.
This is one more significant upheaval in Hollywood, which is navigating company buyouts and fusions, in addition to drastic reductions in filming.
"The Academy is an global institution, and this collaboration will allow us to increase availability to the activities of the Academy to the biggest global viewership imaginable - which will be advantageous for our Academy members and the movie industry," said Academy leadership in a announcement.
Over decades, viewership of the awards show have fallen, though there was a minor increase in 2025, with a considerable amount of Gen Z and millennial watchers watching from cell phones and computers.
In a corresponding announcement, the head of YouTube called the Oscars "among our vital cultural institutions" and added that teaming up with the Academy would "motivate a younger cohort of innovation and cinema enthusiasts while staying true to the Oscars' celebrated heritage".
ABC, which has streamed the ceremony since the mid-1970s, stated that it was eagerly anticipating "to hosting the event three more times" it will still host.
The move coincides with film industry giants confront intricate takeover attempts. Both options were considered concerning for an sector that has witnessed severe reductions over the past several years.
Like major studios, traditional TV channels have faced issues as the viewers has shifted towards on-demand video instead.
The platform securing broadcasting rights to the Academy Awards strongly indicates that the dominance of online services will persist increasing.
