Hollywood’s most prestigious awards ceremony is embarking on a new chapter with an exclusive four-year partnership with YouTube covering 2029 through 2033. This landmark agreement signals the entertainment industry’s continued evolution toward digital-first distribution, moving the Oscars from traditional television networks to a streaming platform accessible to billions worldwide.
The partnership’s comprehensive nature distinguishes it from typical broadcasting deals. YouTube will deliver the main ceremony plus red carpet festivities, exclusive backstage content, Governors Ball footage, the Governors Awards, nomination reveals, the nominees Luncheon, student Academy awards, year-round educational programming, podcasts, and extensive filmmaker interviews—creating complete Academy content accessibility.
Academy leadership presented this decision as strategically necessary for serving their increasingly international organization. With over 20% of voting members now based outside America, partnering with a globally accessible streaming platform ensures equitable access to Academy programming for all members and strengthens connections within the worldwide film community.
YouTube’s market position and technical capabilities make it well-suited for this responsibility. The platform consistently achieves the highest streaming viewership share in the United States and recently proved its live broadcasting infrastructure by streaming an NFL game to over 17 million viewers, demonstrating readiness for globally significant events.
Multiple major entertainment companies reportedly competed for these coveted rights, including Netflix and NBCUniversal. Disney’s ABC, which paid approximately $100 million annually for broadcast rights, will conclude its historic five-decade relationship with three final ceremonies before YouTube takes control in 2029, ushering in a new era for the Academy Awards.