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The Academy Awards are set to start airing only on YouTube in 2029, representing the newest substantial transformation in Hollywood.

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences revealed the news on this week, indicating that it signed a extended contract giving YouTube the exclusive global rights to the Oscars until 2033.

The Oscars, set for 15 March, has been televised for 50 years on ABC. Beginning in 2029, the show will be viewable as a free live stream on YouTube.

It's one more significant upheaval in the entertainment world, which is grappling with studio sales and mergers, coupled with drastic slashes to movie budgets.

"The Academy is an international organization, and this alliance will enable us to expand access to the activities of the Academy to the biggest global viewership possible - which will be advantageous for our film artists and the cinematic world," remarked organization heads in a statement.

Over decades, viewership of the televised event have declined, though there was a small rise in 2025, with a notable portion of younger viewers watching from cell phones and laptops.

In a separate statement, the head of YouTube referred to the Oscars "one of our essential cultural touchstones" and noted that teaming up with the Academy would "motivate a new generation of innovation and film lovers while staying true to the Oscars' illustrious history".

ABC, which has aired the awards since 1976, commented that it was looking forward "to the upcoming broadcasts" it will retain rights for.

This decision follows film industry giants deal with intricate takeover attempts. Both options were seen as unfavourable for an industry that has witnessed drastic cuts over the past several years.

In common with big production houses, traditional TV channels have faced issues as the public has shifted towards digital platforms instead.

YouTube obtaining rights to the Academy Awards clearly signals that reliance on streaming sites will carry on increasing.