Oscars to Move from Broadcast TV to YouTube in 2029

The Academy Awards telecast, long a staple on the ABC broadcast network, will transition to live streaming on YouTube starting in 2029. Organizers announced the change on Wednesday, citing shifts in viewing habits and declining ratings for traditional broadcast awards shows.

ABC, owned by Walt Disney, has aired the Oscars annually since 1976. Over the years, the telecast has faced a steady drop in viewership as audiences increasingly turn to streaming platforms for entertainment. The move to YouTube reflects the Academy’s strategy to reach younger, digital-savvy viewers while modernizing the Oscars’ presentation for a global audience.

The decision also underscores a broader trend in the entertainment industry, where major events and high-profile broadcasts are shifting from traditional television to online platforms. Streaming services allow for interactive features, on-demand access, and a wider reach across international audiences, all of which are appealing to award show organizers seeking to maintain relevance and engagement.

Academy officials stated that the transition to YouTube will provide opportunities for innovative content, including behind-the-scenes coverage, live reactions, and expanded viewer participation. The streaming format may also attract new sponsors and partnerships, creating additional revenue streams for the annual event.

While traditional broadcast viewers may initially be disappointed by the move, the Academy sees this as a long-term strategy to secure the Oscars’ place in the digital age. The change will also likely influence other awards shows considering similar transitions as audience habits continue to evolve.