Los angeles: The organizers of the Academy Awards have announced a significant shift in their broadcast strategy by moving the live stream of the Oscars from traditional television to YouTube.

According to Thai News Agency, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, responsible for hosting the Oscars since 1929, has decided to embrace the growing trend of online streaming. This move aligns with the increasing global inclination towards watching live broadcasts online. This transition will span from 2029 to 2033 and includes not only the Oscar ceremony but also other notable film events like the Governors Awards and the Oscar Nominees Luncheon, both of which have not been traditionally televised.

The Oscars have been a staple of television broadcast through Walt Disney’s ABC station since 1976. However, with a steady decline in television viewership, as demonstrated by the most recent ceremony’s 19.7 million US viewers compared to the peak of 57 million in 1998, the Academy is adapting to the changing media landscape. This decision to stream on YouTube is partly motivated by the platform’s ability to provide multilingual subtitles and audio, thus ensuring a more inclusive global reach.

ABC, which currently holds the broadcast rights, is reportedly interested in retaining them post-2028 when their current contract expires. However, they are cautious about the costs, especially with the Oscars’ centennial anniversary approaching in 2028. This shift to online streaming on YouTube represents a strategic move to engage a broader audience while navigating the evolving dynamics of media consumption.