The Academy Awards to Depart Broadcast TV and Broadcast Live on the Video Platform Beginning in the Year 2029.
The Oscars ceremony will commence airing only on the global video platform in 2029, signaling the newest significant transformation in the film industry.
The organization behind the Oscars made the announcement on this week, indicating that it entered into a multi-year deal granting the streaming service the sole worldwide broadcasting rights to the Oscars until 2033.
The awards show, which is planned for March 15th, has been broadcast for a half a century on the traditional network. Starting in 2029, the show will be available in real-time without charge on the digital platform.
This is a further substantial restructuring in Hollywood, which is navigating company buyouts and fusions, along with steep reductions in filming.
"Our Academy represents an global institution, and this alliance will enable us to broaden reach to the work of the Academy to the biggest global viewership possible - which will be advantageous for our Academy members and the cinematic world," said Academy leadership in a release.
Throughout a long period, viewership of the ceremony have declined, even if there was a minor increase in 2025, with a considerable amount of younger viewers watching from smartphones and computers.
In a related comment, the head of YouTube called the Oscars "a key vital cultural touchstones" and added that teaming up with the Academy would "spark a new generation of innovation and cinema enthusiasts while adhering to the Oscars' celebrated legacy".
The broadcast network, which has streamed the awards 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 face challenging merger discussions. Both options were seen as concerning for an sector that has witnessed severe reductions over the last few years.
In common with major studios, cable networks have encountered challenges as the audience has increasingly opted for on-demand video instead.
YouTube winning rights to the Oscars clearly signals that dependence on online services will persist expanding.
