Will the Oscars Be Streaming on YouTube by 2029?

The Academy Awards will begin streaming exclusively on YouTube in 2029, marking a significant shift in how the prestigious ceremony will be accessed by audiences worldwide. This multi-year deal, announced by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, grants YouTube the exclusive global rights to the Oscars until 2033, allowing viewers to watch the awards live and for free on the platform.

Last updated: 28 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

The announcement of the Oscars moving to YouTube represents a major evolution in the entertainment landscape, especially as traditional broadcast networks face declining viewership. Beginning in 2029, audiences will be able to access the Oscars without a cable subscription, which may significantly enhance viewership, particularly among younger demographics who favour digital platforms over traditional television. This shift is part of a broader trend where film and television institutions are adapting to the changing habits of audiences who increasingly prefer streaming services.

Key takeaways

• The Oscars will be streamed exclusively on YouTube starting in 2029.
• This agreement gives YouTube global rights to the ceremony until 2033.
• Viewership for the Oscars has been declining, but there was a notable increase in 2025.
• The move reflects the ongoing trend of traditional media adapting to streaming platforms.
• YouTube aims to attract a younger audience and inspire future generations of filmmakers.

Timeline: how we got here

Here’s a brief timeline highlighting key events leading up to this announcement:

• 1976: ABC begins broadcasting the Oscars, establishing a long-term relationship with the Academy.
• 2025: The Oscars experience a slight uptick in viewership, particularly among younger audiences accessing the show via mobile devices.
• 2029: The Oscars to begin streaming live and for free on YouTube, following the announcement of the exclusive deal.
• 2033: The current agreement between the Academy and YouTube is set to expire.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

The most significant development is the announcement of YouTube securing exclusive streaming rights to the Academy Awards. This strategic shift aims to make the Oscars more accessible to a global audience and is part of a broader trend of Hollywood adapting to changing viewing habits.

What was already established

For over 50 years, the Oscars have been broadcast on ABC, which has cultivated a dedicated viewership. However, as audiences have migrated to streaming platforms, the Academy has recognised the need to evolve to maintain relevance and attract younger viewers.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

For UK audiences, the transition to YouTube streaming means they will no longer need a cable subscription to watch the Oscars. This accessibility could lead to increased viewership and engagement, particularly among younger individuals who prefer online platforms. Additionally, it may influence how viewers engage with the film industry as a whole.

Businesses and jobs

The shift in broadcasting rights may have implications for advertising revenue and partnerships within the film industry. As YouTube takes over the streaming rights, it could reshape how brands engage with audiences during the awards, potentially leading to new opportunities for advertisers targeting a digital-savvy demographic.

Policy and regulation

This move also raises questions about media regulations and the future of broadcasting rights in the UK. As streaming services continue to gain prominence, regulators may need to address issues related to content accessibility and the implications for traditional broadcasters.

Numbers that matter

• 50 years: The duration the Oscars have been aired on ABC before transitioning to YouTube.
• 2033: The year the exclusive deal between the Academy and YouTube is set to conclude.
• 25%: Estimated increase in viewership among younger audiences in 2025 compared to previous years.
• 1 billion: Approximate number of monthly active users on YouTube, highlighting the platform's potential reach.
• 15 March: Scheduled date for the Oscars in 2029, marking the first year of streaming on YouTube.

Definitions and jargon buster

• Academy Awards: Also known as the Oscars, these are awards for artistic and technical merit in the film industry.
• Streaming: The delivery of content over the internet, allowing users to watch in real-time rather than downloading files.
• Viewership: The number of people who watch a particular broadcast or streaming service.
• Subscriber model: A business model where users pay for access to content over a period, commonly seen in streaming services.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

In the immediate future, audiences can expect to see promotional campaigns from both the Academy and YouTube as they prepare for the transition. Viewers should stay tuned for announcements regarding the 2029 Oscars, including any changes to the format or presentation style that might accompany the move to YouTube.

Medium term (1–6 months)

As the industry adjusts to the news, discussions surrounding the impact of this change on traditional media will likely intensify. Stakeholders in the film industry, including producers, directors, and advertisers, will need to consider how to leverage this new platform effectively.

Signals to watch

• Viewership statistics for upcoming award shows leading up to 2029 to gauge audience engagement.
• Advertising partnerships and revenue generated during the transition period.
• Feedback from audiences regarding the accessibility and presentation of the Oscars on YouTube.

Practical guidance

Do

• Stay informed about updates from the Academy regarding the Oscars.
• Explore YouTube's features to understand how to best engage with the content.
• Consider how this change might impact your own viewing habits and preferences.

Don’t

• Assume that the format of the Oscars will remain unchanged; expect innovations as they adapt to the new platform.
• Dismiss the potential influence of this move on advertising and sponsorship opportunities.
• Neglect to engage with the Oscars leading up to the transition; your engagement could shape future programming.

Checklist

• Check your internet connectivity to ensure smooth streaming for the Oscars in 2029.
• Follow the Academy’s official channels for the latest updates on the event.
• Familiarise yourself with YouTube’s features for live events, including chat options and interactive elements.
• Engage with film-related content on YouTube to enhance your viewing experience.
• Consider how you can support your favourite films and filmmakers leading up to the Oscars.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While the move to YouTube presents numerous opportunities for increased accessibility, it also raises questions about the potential impact on the Oscars' traditional prestige. The reliance on a digital platform may lead to challenges in ensuring a seamless viewing experience, particularly for audiences who are less familiar with streaming technology. Additionally, there remain uncertainties regarding how advertisers will adapt to this new landscape, which could affect revenue streams for the Academy.

Bottom line

The decision to stream the Oscars on YouTube starting in 2029 marks a pivotal moment for the Academy Awards and the film industry as a whole. As audiences shift towards digital consumption, this change not only broadens access to the ceremony but also reflects the Academy's commitment to staying relevant in a rapidly evolving media landscape. The implications of this move will be closely watched as the industry navigates the transition towards a more digitally-centric future.

FAQs

When will the Oscars start streaming on YouTube?

The Oscars will begin streaming exclusively on YouTube starting in 2029, allowing viewers to access the ceremony live and for free.

What does this mean for traditional television broadcasts?

This shift signifies a decline in traditional television broadcasts as audiences increasingly favour digital platforms for viewing major events like the Oscars.

How will this affect viewership numbers for the Oscars?

By transitioning to YouTube, the Academy aims to increase viewership, especially among younger audiences who typically engage more with online content.