YouTube claims entertainment broadcasting’s most coveted prize through an exclusive four-year partnership for Academy Awards worldwide rights beginning in 2029, representing the most dramatic transformation in Oscar broadcasting history. This groundbreaking agreement moves Hollywood’s signature ceremony from traditional television networks to digital streaming platforms with unprecedented global reach, enhanced content delivery capabilities, and comprehensive year-round programming designed to fundamentally transform audience engagement with filmmaking excellence.
The extensive partnership scope extends dramatically beyond the main ceremony broadcast, encompassing comprehensive year-round Academy programming and initiatives. YouTube will deliver complete red carpet arrivals, exclusive behind-the-scenes footage, intimate Governors Ball moments, the Governors Awards ceremony, nomination announcement coverage, the nominees Luncheon access, Student Academy Awards recognition, extensive Academy member interviews, filmmaker conversations, comprehensive film education programs, podcasts, and supplementary content designed to maintain continuous audience engagement throughout the entire calendar year.
The strategic decision aligns perfectly with the Academy’s evolving international identity and commitment to global accessibility. Bill Kramer and Lynette Howell Taylor emphasized that with 21% of voting members now residing outside the United States, worldwide digital distribution better serves their increasingly diverse constituency than traditional network broadcasting. They characterized this partnership as beneficial for Academy membership and the broader filmmaking community, advancing organizational goals while ensuring unprecedented accessibility for global audiences passionate about celebrating cinematic achievement and creative excellence.
Neal Mohan, leading YouTube as CEO, welcomed the responsibility and opportunity of stewarding one of entertainment’s most cherished institutions into the digital age. He committed to honoring the Oscars’ celebrated legacy while leveraging digital innovation to inspire new generations of filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts worldwide. This balanced approach positions YouTube as responsible cultural custodian, recognizing that successful stewardship requires both respecting established traditions and embracing technological advancement that enhances accessibility, engagement, and inspiration for current and future audiences.
The announcement follows YouTube’s impressive performance throughout the current year, maintaining its position as America’s most-watched streaming platform with record viewership shares while traditional networks struggle to maintain relevance. The platform’s successful September live NFL broadcast attracted over 17 million viewers, validating sophisticated production capabilities for major live events. Multiple major media companies competed fiercely for these broadcasting rights, including Netflix, NBCUniversal, and Disney, which previously paid approximately $100 million annually. Disney’s ABC network will broadcast three final Oscar ceremonies through 2028, concluding a relationship spanning over half a century.