The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has announced that the Oscars will transition to an exclusive streaming format on YouTube beginning in 2029, marking the end of its long-standing broadcast partnership with ABC. This decision, confirmed in a press release on December 18, 2025, reflects a significant shift in how one of the most prestigious awards ceremonies in the film industry will reach its audience.
The Academy’s partnership with ABC, which began in 1976, has been a cornerstone of the Oscars’ broadcast history. Over the decades, the ceremony has evolved into a major cultural event, attracting millions of viewers each year. However, in recent years, the viewership numbers have declined, prompting the Academy to explore new avenues for engagement. In 2024, the Oscars recorded its lowest viewership in history, with only 10.5 million people tuning in. This decline has been attributed to changing viewing habits, particularly among younger audiences who increasingly prefer streaming services over traditional television.
The decision to move the Oscars to YouTube is part of a broader trend in the entertainment industry, where streaming platforms are becoming the primary means of content consumption. YouTube, with its vast global reach and user-friendly interface, offers the Academy an opportunity to engage with a younger demographic and expand its audience base. The Oscars will be available for free streaming worldwide, allowing viewers from various regions to participate in the event without the barriers of cable subscriptions or geographical restrictions.
The Academy’s move to YouTube is also indicative of a larger shift in the media landscape. As more viewers turn to digital platforms for their entertainment needs, traditional broadcasters are facing challenges in maintaining their relevance. The Academy’s decision to embrace this change aligns with the growing trend of live events being streamed online, a practice that has gained traction during the COVID-19 pandemic when many in-person events were canceled or modified.
The transition to YouTube is expected to bring several changes to the Oscars’ format and presentation. The Academy has indicated that it plans to leverage YouTube’s interactive features, such as live chats and viewer polls, to enhance audience engagement during the ceremony. This could create a more dynamic viewing experience, allowing fans to participate in real-time discussions and share their reactions as the event unfolds.
The implications of this move extend beyond the Oscars themselves. The decision could set a precedent for other major awards shows and events, prompting them to reconsider their broadcasting strategies in favor of digital platforms. As the entertainment industry continues to adapt to the digital age, the success of the Oscars on YouTube may influence how other organizations approach their own events.
The Academy has also emphasized its commitment to maintaining the integrity and prestige of the Oscars during this transition. While the move to YouTube represents a significant change, the Academy has assured its stakeholders that it will continue to uphold the standards that have defined the awards for nearly a century. The organization plans to work closely with YouTube to ensure that the ceremony remains a high-quality production that honors the achievements of filmmakers and artists.
As the 2028 Oscars will be the last to air on ABC, the Academy is expected to use this final broadcast as an opportunity to celebrate its history and the impact of the awards on the film industry. The 2028 ceremony will likely feature tributes to past winners and iconic moments from the show’s history, serving as a bridge between the traditional broadcast era and the new digital landscape.
In conclusion, the Academy’s decision to stream the Oscars exclusively on YouTube starting in 2029 marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of the awards. By embracing digital streaming, the Academy aims to reach a broader audience and adapt to changing viewing habits. As the entertainment industry continues to navigate the complexities of the digital age, the success of this transition will be closely watched by stakeholders across the sector. The move not only reflects the Academy’s desire to remain relevant but also underscores the ongoing transformation of how audiences consume live events in an increasingly digital world.
