The Oscars Will Leave ABC and Stream on YouTube Starting in 2029.

The Academy Awards will begin streaming exclusively on the global video platform in 2029, representing the most recent substantial transformation in the film industry.

The organization behind the Oscars revealed the news on Wednesday, confirming that it finalized a multi-year deal giving the streaming service the unique international license to the Oscars through 2033.

The awards show, which is planned for 15 March, has been televised for 50 years on ABC. Commencing in 2029, the ceremony will be available live and for free on YouTube.

It's one more major upheaval in Hollywood, which is navigating corporate acquisitions and consolidations, along with steep reductions in filming.

"The Academy is an worldwide body, and this alliance will permit us to broaden reach to the work of the Academy to the most extensive international crowd imaginable - which will be positive for our membership and the cinematic world," said the Academy's executives in a statement.

Over decades, audience numbers of the awards show have dropped, though there was a slight uptick in 2025, with a considerable amount of Gen Z and millennial watchers streaming from mobile devices and desktops.

In a related comment, the head of YouTube referred to the Oscars "one of our essential cultural institutions" and added that partnering with the Academy would "motivate a younger cohort of artistic expression and cinema enthusiasts while staying true to the Oscars' storied legacy".

ABC, which has streamed the awards since the mid-1970s, said that it was excited "to hosting the event three more times" it will continue to air.

This shift coincides with film industry giants face complex corporate battles. Both options were considered unfavourable for an sector that has witnessed severe reductions over the last few years.

In common with big production houses, traditional TV channels have struggled as the viewers has increasingly opted for streaming services instead.

YouTube obtaining broadcasting rights to the Academy Awards further suggests that the dominance of digital platforms will carry on expanding.