The Oscars moving to YouTube 2029 marks a seismic shift for Hollywood’s most prestigious awards ceremony. On Wednesday, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences confirmed a multi-year deal granting the video platform exclusive global rights through 2033. This historic agreement officially ends the ceremony’s five-decade relationship with ABC, which has served as the show’s primary broadcaster since 1976.
News of the Oscars moving to YouTube 2029 follows a competitive bidding war involving several major networks and streamers. While ABC will continue to air the event through its centennial 100th anniversary in 2028, the platform transition aims to capture younger, more global audiences. Academy CEO Bill Kramer noted that the partnership will leverage the site’s vast reach to celebrate cinema on an unprecedented scale.
The Oscars moving to YouTube 2029 package includes more than just the main ceremony. Fans will have free access to the red carpet, Governors Awards, and behind-the-scenes content across all digital devices. In the United States, the show will also be available for YouTube TV subscribers. This digital-first strategy is designed to combat declining traditional television ratings while offering interactive features like multiple language audio tracks.
Industry experts view the Oscars moving to YouTube 2029 as a definitive moment for the future of entertainment distribution. By ditching broadcast television, the Academy is meeting viewers where they already consume content daily. This transition follows similar moves by major sports leagues and the Screen Actors Guild. The film community now awaits how this change will reshape the production and cultural impact of the golden statuette.
