Monday, December 22, 2025

YouTube Secures Oscar Global Streaming Rights


The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has signed a multi-year deal with YouTube, granting the Google-owned platform exclusive global rights to the Oscars beginning with the 101st ceremony in 2029 and running through 2033. 

The agreement includes the full ceremony, red carpet coverage, behind-the-scenes content, Governors Ball access, and other Academy events.

The Oscars will stream live and free worldwide on YouTube, with features like closed captioning and multi-language audio tracks to enhance global accessibility. In the U.S., it will also be available to YouTube TV subscribers, with commercials expected during broadcasts.

ABC, which has broadcast the Oscars since 1976, will continue through the 100th ceremony in 2028—the show's centennial. This marks the end of over 75 years of broadcast television for the event, which first aired on TV in 1953 on NBC.

YouTube's massive reach—over 2 billion monthly users—positions the Oscars to potentially attract a larger, more international audience than ever before, especially for viewers in regions without traditional broadcast access. The move reflects the growing shift toward streaming for major live events, allowing fans to watch without relying on cable, satellite, or regional deals.