YouTube To Stream Oscars Globally From 2029

The Academy Awards are set for a historic shift in broadcast history, with YouTube securing exclusive global streaming rights to the Oscars from 2029. The move ends ABC’s nearly 50-year association with Hollywood’s most prestigious awards ceremony and signals the growing dominance of digital platforms in premium live entertainment. The agreement will run until 2033 and promises free worldwide access to the Oscars.

End Of ABC’s Long Broadcast Era

ABC will retain the rights to broadcast the Academy Awards through 2028, including the landmark 100th Oscars ceremony. From 2029 onwards, YouTube will become the global home of the event, marking a decisive break from traditional network television. ABC had reportedly sought to renegotiate lower fees amid declining television ratings, bringing an end to one of the longest-running broadcast partnerships in entertainment history.

Scope And Value Of The YouTube Deal

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences confirmed that YouTube’s deal covers full Oscars programming. This includes the main awards ceremony, red carpet coverage, backstage access and the Governors Ball. Industry sources indicate the agreement is valued at over $100 million, with YouTube outbidding rivals such as Disney and NBCUniversal. Advertising will continue during the broadcast, maintaining a key revenue stream for the Academy.

Global Access And Streaming Strategy

Under the agreement, international viewers will be able to watch the Oscars free on YouTube’s main platform, while YouTube TV subscribers in the United States will access the ceremony through their subscriptions. Academy leaders said the partnership would expand the Oscars’ reach to the largest possible global audience. YouTube executives described the awards as a major cultural institution and said the deal would attract younger viewers and new film audiences.

What to Note for Exams?

• YouTube will stream the Oscars globally from 2029 to 2033.
• ABC retains broadcast rights until the 100th Oscars in 2028.
• The deal reportedly exceeds $100 million in value.
• Free global streaming will coexist with advertising revenue.

Streaming Platforms And Live Event Shift

The Oscars deal highlights a wider industry trend, with streaming platforms aggressively acquiring high-profile live events. Television ratings for the Oscars have fallen sharply over the decades, dropping from a peak of 57 million viewers in 1998 to just over 18 million in 2025. By moving to YouTube, the Academy is betting on digital reach and global accessibility to revitalise interest and relevance in an evolving entertainment landscape.