Hollywood’s biggest night, the Oscars, will come to YouTube (GOOG) (GOOGL) starting in 2029.
The world’s biggest video streaming platform on Wednesday said it is partnering with The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences to bring the coveted event to audiences worldwide. The move marks a seismic shift as the event arrives on a streaming platform after over 70 years on broadcast television.
Streaming is already the no. 1 method of consuming TV in the United States, having a 46.7% share, followed by broadcast with 23.2%, cable with 20.3%, and 9.6% from other sources, according to the latest data from Nielsen. Google-owned YouTube accounts for nearly 13% of TV viewership via streaming, the highest vs. rival platforms like Netflix (NFLX) and Disney+ (DIS).
Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed. The deal will begin in 2029 with the 101st Oscars ceremony and run through 2033.
The event will be available to watch exclusively on YouTube for free globally and on YouTube TV in the U.S. It will also feature the red carpet coverage, behind-the-scenes content, and Governors Ball access, according to the official statement.
As part of the partnership, movie connoisseurs will be able to watch other Academy events and programs exclusively on the Oscars YouTube channel, the parties said.
Additionally, Google Arts & Culture will provide digital access to select exhibitions of the Academy Museum and help them digitize their collection.
“Partnering with The Academy will inspire a new generation of creativity and film lovers while staying true to the Oscars’ storied legacy,” YouTube CEO Neal Mohan said.
Disney-owned ABC (DIS) will retain the domestic and international rights to broadcast the Oscars until 2028, the Academy said.