YouTube Lands Exclusive Oscars Broadcasting Rights Starting 2029
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences strikes a groundbreaking multi-year partnership with YouTube, marking a historic shift in how the world's most prestigious film awards will reach global audiences.
Hollywood's most prestigious awards ceremony is making a dramatic shift to digital streaming. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has struck a groundbreaking partnership with YouTube that will transform how audiences worldwide experience the annual celebration of cinematic excellence.
This landmark agreement takes effect in 2029 and runs through 2033, representing a seismic change in the entertainment industry's approach to major live events. Disney ABC will continue broadcasting the ceremony for three more years, with their final telecast scheduled for 2028 – coinciding with the awards show's centennial milestone.
Academy Leaders Embrace Digital Future
Academy CEO Bill Kramer and President Lynette Howell Taylor expressed enthusiasm about the groundbreaking arrangement. "We are thrilled to enter into a multifaceted global partnership with YouTube to be the future home of the Oscars and our year-round Academy programming," they stated jointly.
The leadership emphasized the international scope of their organization and the potential for unprecedented reach. "The Academy is an international organization, and this partnership will allow us to expand access to the work of the Academy to the largest worldwide audience possible — which will be beneficial for our Academy members and the film community," they explained.
Innovation Meets Tradition
The Academy executives highlighted how this collaboration will "leverage YouTube's vast reach and infuse the Oscars and other Academy programming with innovative opportunities for engagement while honoring our legacy." They anticipate the partnership will "inspire new generations of filmmakers and provide access to our film history on an unprecedented global scale."
YouTube CEO Neal Mohan shared similar excitement about the collaboration. "The Oscars are one of our essential cultural institutions, honoring excellence in storytelling and artistry," Mohan commented. "Partnering with the Academy to bring this celebration of art and entertainment to viewers all over the world will inspire a new generation of creativity and film lovers while staying true to the Oscars' storied legacy."
Looking Ahead to 2026
The 98th Academy Awards ceremony is scheduled for March 15th, 2026, at the iconic Dolby Theater in Los Angeles. Conan O'Brien will return as host for his second consecutive year, bringing his distinctive comedic style to the prestigious event. The complete nomination list will be unveiled on January 22nd, 2026, setting the stage for another year of Hollywood's biggest night.