ABC has long been synonymous with the Oscars, airing the ceremony since 1976. That era will come to an end in 2028.
Starting in 2029, YouTube will take over as the exclusive global home of the Oscars, beginning with the 101st ceremony, under a multiyear agreement running through 2033. The deal also includes the red carpet preshow coverage and behind-the-scenes content, giving viewers even more access to the event, according to Variety.
“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,” said Academy CEO Bill Kramer and Academy President Lynette Howell Taylor in a statement.
“The Academy is an international organization, 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 move comes amid a shift in the entertainment industry, as streaming platforms compete for live events to attract global audiences. Earlier this year, Apple secured exclusive rights to F1 broadcasts, and in 2024, Disney obtained the Grammys.
Netflix, Amazon, Peacock and now YouTube are investing heavily in live and hybrid content, fueling the streaming wars.
“The Oscars are one of our essential cultural institutions, honoring excellence in storytelling and artistry,” said Neal Mohan, CEO of YouTube. “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 acquisition comes as YouTube has been growing into “the most powerful platform on earth,” according to a cover story by The Hollywood Reporter earlier this year.
One user on X described the news as “a plot twist in the streaming wars.”
Variety reported that the Academy had been negotiating a new licensing deal for much of 2025, with potential bidders including NBCUniversal and Netflix. Insiders say the price tag for YouTube likely exceeds nine figures.