For the first time in its century-long history, the Oscars are officially moving to YouTube — and viewers around the world will be able to watch the ceremony live and free. However, this historic shift won’t happen immediately.
You can start watching the Oscars for free on YouTube beginning in 2029, with the 101st Academy Awards. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has signed a multi-year global deal with YouTube that will run from 2029 through 2033, making YouTube the exclusive worldwide home of the Oscars during that period.
Until then, the Oscars will continue to air on ABC through 2028, as per the network’s existing broadcast rights.
What Will Be Available on YouTube?
Starting in 2029, YouTube will stream the entire Oscars experience live, not just the main awards ceremony. Viewers will also get access to red carpet coverage, behind-the-scenes moments, and even the prestigious Governors Ball. The content will be available globally at no cost, while viewers in the US can also watch via YouTube TV.
One of the biggest advantages of the move is accessibility. The Academy has confirmed that the YouTube broadcast will support closed captions and multiple language audio tracks, helping the Oscars reach a much broader international audience than ever before.
Why Are the Oscars Moving to YouTube?
According to Academy CEO Bill Kramer and Academy President Lynette Howell Taylor, the decision reflects the Oscars’ growing global outlook. They emphasized that partnering with YouTube allows the Academy to expand access to cinema, celebrate film history, and connect with new generations of filmmakers and movie lovers on a scale that traditional television simply can’t match.
YouTube CEO Neal Mohan echoed that sentiment, calling the Oscars one of the world’s most important cultural institutions and highlighting YouTube’s ability to inspire creativity while preserving the ceremony’s legacy.
