Oscars’ YouTube game-changer for film fans

IN A historic move that signals the end of an era for traditional television, the Academy Awards are officially heading to YouTube.

- GERRY CUPIDO

US COMEDIAN and host Conan O'Brien speaks onstage during the 97th Annual Academy Awards.

(Patrick T. Fallon/AFP)

On Wednesday, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced a massive multiyear deal that grants YouTube the exclusive global rights to the Oscars from 2029 through to 2033.

This marks a major pivot for Hollywood's most prestigious night, ending a partnership with ABC that dates all the way back to 1976.

For movie lovers around the world, this is incredibly exciting news.

The move is designed to meet audiences where they already are: online.

By shifting to a platform that boasts over two billion users, the ceremony will now reach a far greater number of viewers than ever before.

This isn't just about moving a broadcast from one screen to another; it is a total expansion of the Oscar experience.

Starting in 2029, the ceremony will stream live and free for viewers worldwide on YouTube, and will also be available for YouTube TV subscribers in the United States.