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The Oscars to leave ABC and stream on YouTube starting in 2029

December 17, 2025

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has announced a groundbreaking multi-year agreement with YouTube to stream the Oscars exclusively on the platform from 2029 through 2033, ending ABC's five-decade broadcasting relationship after 2028. This shift reflects Hollywood's ongoing transformation amid studio consolidations and decreased production spending, as traditional television viewership continues declining while streaming platforms gain prominence. The Academy hopes this partnership will significantly expand global access to the ceremony, particularly appealing to younger audiences who increasingly consume content on mobile devices and computers.

Who is affected

  • The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and its members
  • YouTube and its global user base
  • ABC television network (losing broadcast rights after 2028)
  • Film industry professionals and the broader film community
  • Viewers worldwide, particularly younger audiences who watch on phones and computers
  • Warner Bros Discovery shareholders
  • Paramount Skydance and Netflix (involved in takeover discussions)
  • Major Hollywood studios and cable networks

What action is being taken

  • The Academy is partnering with YouTube under a multi-year exclusive streaming deal
  • ABC is preparing to host the next three Oscar telecasts (through 2028)
  • Warner Bros Discovery is recommending shareholders reject Paramount Skydance's hostile takeover bid in favor of Netflix's rival bid
  • Hollywood studios are implementing steep production cuts

Why it matters

  • This represents a fundamental shift in how prestigious cultural events reach audiences, signaling that even the most established entertainment institutions are moving away from traditional broadcast television toward streaming platforms. The change reflects broader industry upheaval as Hollywood grapples with declining viewership, financial pressures, and changing consumption habits favoring digital platforms over cable networks. By moving to YouTube's free, globally accessible platform, the Academy aims to reverse viewership declines and engage younger demographics who have largely abandoned traditional television, potentially reshaping how major awards shows operate in the streaming era.

What's next

  • No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: BBC