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The Academy Awards will commence broadcasting solely on YouTube in 2029, signaling the latest significant change in the film industry.

The organization behind the Oscars revealed the news on Wednesday, indicating that it finalized a long-term agreement giving YouTube the exclusive global rights to the Oscars through 2033.

The awards show, scheduled for March 15th, has been broadcast for 50 years on ABC. Starting in 2029, the show will be accessible in real-time without charge on the digital platform.

It's another significant shakeup in the entertainment world, which is dealing with studio sales and mergers, in addition to severe reductions in filming.

"Our Academy represents an global institution, and this partnership will allow us to expand access to the activities of the Academy to the largest worldwide audience possible - which will be positive for our membership and the cinematic world," remarked Academy leadership in a announcement.

Over decades, ratings of the ceremony have fallen, though there was a minor increase in 2025, with a considerable amount of Gen Z and millennial watchers watching from mobile devices and desktops.

In a separate statement, YouTube's CEO called the Oscars "among our vital pillars of culture" and added that working with the Academy would "motivate a younger cohort of innovation and cinema enthusiasts while adhering to the Oscars' illustrious history".

ABC, which has aired the ceremony since 1976, said that it was eagerly anticipating "to the next three telecasts" it will retain rights for.

The move follows film industry giants deal with complex corporate battles. Such proposals were viewed as concerning for an business that has seen significant downsizing over the past several years.

Similar to major studios, traditional TV channels have struggled as the public has shifted towards digital platforms instead.

YouTube obtaining rights to the Academy Awards further suggests that the dominance of online services will continue increasing.