Oscars Set for Major Shake-Up with YouTube Broadcast Deal
A fresh global partnership is on the cards for the Oscars, with YouTube taking over broadcasting duties from 2029. Disney ABC will air the next three ceremonies, including the 100th anniversary.
The Academy Awards are gearing up for a significant change, with a new worldwide broadcast arrangement locked in. Starting in 2029, YouTube will become the exclusive home for the Oscars, following a multi-year agreement with the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. This partnership is slated to run through to 2033, marking a new era for the iconic awards night.
For now, the next three ceremonies will stick with Disney ABC, which has been the long-standing broadcaster. The 2028 event will be their swan song, coinciding with the centenary of the Oscars. After that, the baton passes to YouTube, opening up the event to a broader global audience than ever before.
New Era for the Academy
Academy CEO Bill Kramer and President Lynette Howell Taylor shared their excitement about the deal, stating,
“We are thrilled to enter into a multifaceted global partnership with YouTube to be the future home of the Oscars and our year-round Academy programming.”
They added,
“The Academy is an international organisation, and this partnership will allow us to expand access to the work of the Academy to the largest worldwide audience possible — which will be beneficial for our Academy members and the film community.”
The pair also reckon the collaboration will tap into YouTube’s massive reach, bringing fresh ways for punters to get involved while still respecting the event’s long history. They’re hopeful this move will spark interest among up-and-coming filmmakers and give people access to the Academy’s film archive on a scale not seen before.
YouTube’s Take on the Partnership
YouTube’s CEO Neal Mohan weighed in, saying,
“The Oscars are one of our essential cultural institutions, honouring excellence in storytelling and artistry. Partnering with the Academy to bring this celebration of art and entertainment to viewers all over the world will inspire a new generation of creativity and film lovers while staying true to the Oscars’ storied legacy.”
This marks a big step for YouTube, as it cements its place as a major player in live global events, especially in the entertainment sector. The move is expected to make the Oscars more accessible to viewers everywhere, not just those with traditional TV access.
What’s Next for the Oscars
The 98th Academy Awards are set for March 15, 2026, at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles. Conan O’Brien is returning as host for the second year running, bringing his trademark wit to the stage. The full list of nominations will be announced on January 22, 2026, giving film fans plenty to look forward to.
With the 100th anniversary on the horizon and a new broadcast partner lined up, the Oscars are clearly looking to the future, aiming to keep the ceremony relevant and engaging for audiences around the globe.