The Oscars are set to begin streaming exclusively on YouTube in 2029, and will not be broadcast on terrestrial TV.
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced yesterday (Wednesday December 17) that the Academy Awards would be leaving ABC after more than half a century on the network.
It has signed a multi-year deal that will give YouTube the exclusive global rights to the Oscars until 2033. Fans will be able to tune into the ceremony live and free of charge via the platform.
Academy CEO Bill Kramer and Academy President Lynette Howell Taylor said in a statement (via The Independent): “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.
“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.”
They continued: “This collaboration will leverage YouTube’s vast reach and infuse the Oscars and other Academy programming with innovative opportunities for engagement while honouring our legacy.
“We will be able to celebrate cinema, inspire new generations of filmmakers and provide access to our film history on an unprecedented global scale.”
Neal Mohan, YouTube CEO, added: “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.”
The 98th Academy Awards are scheduled to take place on March 15, 2026, with Conan O’Brien returning as host. ABC will continue to broadcast the ceremony until 2028, which marks its 100th edition.
Meanwhile, Nick Cave, Nine Inch Nails, Ed Sheeran and KPop Demon Hunters are among the acts to have been shortlisted for Best Original Song at the 2026 Oscars. The shortlist for the Best Original Score category has also been revealed.
The full list of nominations will be announced on Thursday January 22, 2026.