Oscars Transition to YouTube: A New Era of Accessibility and Innovation

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has partnered with YouTube for a multi-year deal to stream the Oscars globally from 2029 to 2033. This collaboration aims to increase global viewership, enhance accessibility, and offer innovative engagement opportunities while maintaining the Oscars' legacy.

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) has forged a groundbreaking partnership with YouTube, granting the platform exclusive global rights to broadcast the Oscars starting in 2029. The deal, which runs through 2033, marks a significant shift from the traditional airing on ABC, which holds the rights until 2028, as reported by Variety.

This new arrangement means the Oscars, along with red carpet events, behind-the-scenes content, and the Governors Ball, will be freely accessible to global audiences on YouTube. U.S. viewers can also access the event via YouTube TV. Despite the shift to a digital platform, commercials will continue to be a part of the Oscars experience, sources told Variety.

Academy officials express optimism that the YouTube collaboration will enhance accessibility through features like closed captioning and multilingual audio tracks. Academy CEO Bill Kramer and President Lynette Howell Taylor stated that the partnership aims to engage a worldwide audience while preserving the Oscars' legacy. YouTube's CEO, Neal Mohan, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the platform's commitment to celebrating the arts and inspiring future filmmakers. The financial terms of the deal reportedly saw YouTube outbid competitors with an offer exceeding nine figures, according to insiders.

(With inputs from agencies.)