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Hollywood’s Biggest Night Finds New Home: Oscars Head to YouTube in 2029
In a move set to reshape the landscape of awards show broadcasting, the Academy Awards will be making a significant shift to YouTube starting in 2029. This landmark decision marks the end of an era for the Oscars as a network television staple and ushers in a new chapter for Hollywood’s most prestigious event.
For decades, the Academy Awards have been a cornerstone of network programming, drawing millions of viewers annually to celebrate cinematic achievements. However, with evolving viewing habits and the increasing dominance of streaming platforms, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has opted for a strategic pivot.
NBC News’ Chloe Melas reports on the motivations behind this momentous change, suggesting that the Academy is looking to expand its reach and engage with a global, digitally native audience. The move to YouTube is expected to offer greater flexibility in content delivery, potentially introducing new interactive elements and accessibility features that traditional television broadcasts might not readily accommodate.
While specific details regarding the format and production of the YouTube-exclusive broadcasts are yet to be announced, this transition signals a bold step for the Academy as it embraces the future of media consumption and seeks to maintain the relevance and excitement of Hollywood’s biggest night in a rapidly changing digital world.