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The Academy Awards will begin broadcasting solely on the global video platform in 2029, representing the latest major change in Hollywood.

The organization behind the Oscars revealed the news on Wednesday, stating that it signed a long-term agreement granting the streaming service the sole worldwide broadcasting rights to the Oscars through 2033.

The Oscars, scheduled for March 15th, has been televised for a half a century on the traditional network. Commencing in 2029, the show will be available live and for free on the digital platform.

It's another substantial restructuring in the entertainment world, which is dealing with corporate acquisitions and consolidations, coupled with steep reductions in filming.

"The Academy is an global institution, and this partnership will enable us to broaden reach to the mission of the Academy to the largest worldwide audience attainable - which will be advantageous for our film artists and the film community," stated Academy leadership in a statement.

Over decades, viewership of the ceremony have dropped, although there was a slight uptick in 2025, with a considerable amount of younger viewers tuning in from cell phones and desktops.

In a corresponding announcement, the video platform's chief executive described the Oscars "a key vital cultural institutions" and said that working with the Academy would "motivate a younger cohort of creativity and film lovers while remaining faithful to the Oscars' celebrated history".

ABC, which has aired the ceremony since 1976, stated that it was looking forward "to hosting the event three more times" it will continue to air.

This decision coincides with major studios confront complex corporate battles. These potential deals were seen as unfavourable for an business that has witnessed severe reductions over the recent period.

In common with major studios, traditional TV channels have struggled as the audience has chosen digital platforms instead.

The platform securing rights to the Academy Awards strongly indicates that reliance on digital platforms will persist increasing.