Hollywood’s most prestigious awards ceremony undergoes revolutionary transformation as the Academy announces exclusive partnership with YouTube beginning in 2029. This four-year global broadcasting agreement marks the definitive transition from traditional network television to digital streaming, reflecting fundamental shifts in media consumption patterns and the entertainment industry’s ongoing evolution toward digital-first distribution strategies.
The comprehensive agreement extends far beyond simple ceremony broadcasting. YouTube gains complete control over red carpet festivities, behind-the-scenes exclusive content, Governors Ball access, the Governors Awards, nomination announcements, the nominees Luncheon, Student Academy Awards, filmmaker and member interviews, film education programs, podcasts, and extensive supplementary content. This year-round programming approach transforms the Oscar experience from an isolated annual event into sustained engagement with Academy initiatives and filmmaking excellence.
The strategic decision reflects the Academy’s commitment to serving its increasingly diverse and international membership. With voters from outside the United States now representing 21% of membership, Bill Kramer and Lynette Howell Taylor emphasized that worldwide digital distribution addresses their global constituency more effectively than traditional American network broadcasting. This alignment between organizational demographics and distribution strategy positions the Academy for continued relevance and accessibility in an increasingly connected world.
YouTube CEO Neal Mohan positioned the partnership as responsibility meeting opportunity. He committed to preserving the Oscars’ distinguished heritage while leveraging digital innovation to cultivate new audiences and inspire emerging creative talent. This balanced approach recognizes that successful stewardship of cultural institutions requires both respecting established traditions and embracing technological advancement that enhances accessibility and engagement for current and future generations.
The announcement arrives amid ongoing entertainment industry transformation toward streaming dominance. YouTube maintained its position as America’s most-watched streaming platform throughout the current year, consistently surpassing traditional television networks in viewership metrics. The platform’s successful September live NFL broadcast attracted over 17 million viewers, validating capabilities for major live event production. Multiple major media companies competed for these broadcasting rights, with Disney previously paying approximately $100 million annually. ABC will conclude its Oscar broadcasting relationship spanning over fifty years with three final ceremonies through 2028, including the centennial celebration.