Hollywood’s most prestigious awards ceremony undergoes its most significant transformation in decades as the Academy announces an exclusive partnership with YouTube. Starting in 2029 and continuing through 2033, this groundbreaking agreement relocates the Oscars from traditional broadcast television to digital streaming, reflecting fundamental changes in how global audiences consume entertainment content.
This multifaceted partnership delivers comprehensive coverage extending far beyond the main ceremony. Viewers worldwide will access complete red carpet coverage, exclusive behind-the-scenes content, and intimate Governors Ball moments previously restricted to attendees. The enhanced viewing experience leverages YouTube’s technological infrastructure to provide interactive features and supplementary content impossible within traditional television broadcasting constraints.
The strategic decision reflects the Academy’s evolving identity as an increasingly international organization. With more than one-fifth of voting members now residing outside the United States, digital distribution through a global platform addresses their constituency more effectively. Academy CEO Bill Kramer and President Lynette Howell Taylor emphasized that worldwide accessibility benefits both members and the broader filmmaking community, supporting the organization’s mission of celebrating cinematic excellence globally.
YouTube’s leadership views this partnership as responsibility and opportunity combined. CEO Neal Mohan committed to honoring the Oscars’ distinguished heritage while inspiring new generations of filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts. This delicate balance between tradition and innovation positions YouTube as cultural steward for one of entertainment’s most significant institutions as it approaches its centennial celebration.
The entertainment industry’s ongoing transformation toward streaming dominance provides context for this announcement. YouTube achieved record viewership shares throughout the current year, consistently outperforming traditional networks. The platform’s successful live NFL broadcast in September attracted over 17 million viewers, demonstrating capabilities for major live event production. Meanwhile, traditional broadcast viewership continues declining despite ABC’s modest improvement to 19.7 million viewers for this year’s ceremony. Industry experts anticipate significant reactions from Academy members as Hollywood’s biggest night transitions to digital platforms.
