The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has officially announced major changes: the Oscars ceremony is moving to YouTube. Starting from 2029, the video platform will become the only place where viewers can watch the ceremony live. This decision marks the end of an era of cooperation with ABC, which broadcast the awards for more than 50 years.

The main reason behind the move is the decline in television ratings. While 55 million people watched the ceremony in 1998, viewership in recent years has dropped to around 20 million. Transitioning to YouTube will allow the Academy to reach more than 2 billion users worldwide and attract a younger audience that has long abandoned traditional television.

The contract with Google covers the period from 2029 to 2033. As part of this partnership, viewers will receive:

• Free access: The live broadcast will be available worldwide at no cost.

• Exclusive content: In addition to the ceremony itself, YouTube will feature red carpet coverage, behind-the-scenes footage, interviews with directors, and educational programs.

• Until 2029: ABC will continue broadcasting the Oscars in its traditional format for three more seasons.

This marks the first time in history that one of the world’s major award ceremonies (alongside the Grammys or the Emmys) completely leaves broadcast television for streaming. YouTube CEO Neal Mohan noted that the partnership will help inspire a new generation of creators while preserving the rich legacy of the Oscars.

ORIENT