The Academy Awards will transition to a new format starting in 2029, moving away from ABC after nearly four decades. The prestigious event will be streamed for free on YouTube, marking the beginning of a six-year agreement that extends until 2033. This shift follows the 2028 broadcast, which will feature the best films of 2027.
Outside the United States, access to the Oscars will require a subscription to YouTube TV, adding some complexity for viewers. YouTube will also provide exclusive content, including red carpet coverage and behind-the-scenes footage. The 101st Oscars will include features such as closed captioning and multi-language audio.
The Academy's decision reflects a response to evolving viewing habits, as traditional TV continues to face competition from streaming services. Although the Oscars have seen a decline in viewership, they remain one of the most-watched broadcasts of the year. Additionally, the Academy has partnered with Google Arts & Culture to enhance global access to its collections through digitization efforts.
In the interim, comedian Conan O’Brien is set to host the 98th Oscars in March 2026 on ABC. The transition to YouTube signals a significant change in how these awards will engage with audiences moving forward.