The Oscars are making a significant transition, announcing that the prestigious awards ceremony will be broadcast on YouTube starting in 2029. This shift marks a pivotal moment for the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, as it seeks to broaden access to its iconic event. The move comes amid growing competition from streaming platforms like Netflix and Paramount, which have been reshaping the entertainment landscape.
Historic Agreement Reshapes Distribution Model
The current broadcast rights for the Oscars are held by ABC, with a contract running until the 100th annual Academy Awards in 2028. After this landmark event, the Oscars will transition to YouTube, following a deal confirmed on Wednesday. This agreement will extend until at least 2033, allowing the ceremony to reach a global audience at no cost to viewers.
In practical terms, this means that the Oscars will be accessible to an estimated audience of over two billion people worldwide through the free, ad-supported YouTube platform. Viewers in the United States will also have the option to watch via YouTube Premium and YouTube TV, which offer ad-free experiences.
This new agreement represents a fundamental shift in the way the Academy distributes its content. Traditionally, the Oscars have been licensed to individual broadcasters in various countries, as seen in Australia, where they were previously licensed to networks like Seven and Nine. The YouTube deal streamlines this process, allowing the Academy to complete global sales in a single transaction while eliminating barriers to access.
Comprehensive Package with Additional Content
Beyond the main ceremony, the YouTube contract encompasses a variety of related events and content. This includes a red carpet pre-show, behind-the-scenes segments, and the live nominations announcement. The agreement also covers spin-off events like the Oscars Nominees Luncheon, the Student Academy Awards, and the Scientific and Technical Oscars. Furthermore, the Academy plans to introduce official Oscar podcasts and additional content still in development.
While financial details of the deal remain undisclosed, industry speculation suggests it is worth “nine figures,” potentially reaching into the hundreds of millions of dollars. In comparison, the existing agreement with ABC is valued at just below US$100 million (AU$151 million).
Neal Mohan, the chief executive of YouTube, emphasized the cultural significance of the Oscars, describing them as “one of our essential cultural institutions.” He stated that this partnership aims to honour the legacy of the Oscars while inspiring a new generation of filmmakers and film enthusiasts worldwide.
This groundbreaking move underscores a broader trend in the entertainment industry, as traditional media continues to adapt to the evolving landscape shaped by streaming services. As the Academy prepares for this historic transition, its collaboration with YouTube signals a bold step into the future of film and storytelling.
