YouTube Explores Bid to Acquire Oscars Streaming Rights

YouTube is reportedly exploring a bid to acquire rights to the Oscars, aiming to become the next host and streaming partner for the awards ceremony once the current ABC broadcast deal concludes in 2028. The platform has inquired about the possibility as part of its push into live event programming, with other companies also expected to compete for the rights. The move comes amid declining traditional TV ratings for the awards show.

YouTube is reportedly exploring a bid to acquire rights to the Oscars, aiming to become the next host and streaming partner for the awards ceremony once the current ABC broadcast deal concludes in 2028. The platform has inquired about the possibility as part of its push into live event programming, with other companies also expected to compete for the rights. The move comes amid declining traditional TV ratings for the awards show [1].

The shift to streaming platforms for major events like the Oscars is part of a broader trend in the media industry. Traditional broadcasters and studios are facing increased competition from tech giants that already have the eyeballs and distribution power. The Oscars, once a symbol of television supremacy, could become a symbol of the new world order in attention economics [2].

While YouTube's bid is seen as a significant development, some industry experts remain skeptical about the platform's seriousness. They argue that YouTube's lack of original film production and its history of controversy over user-generated content (UGC) could be a barrier to securing the Oscars broadcast rights [1]. Additionally, the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts & Sciences is still in the middle of negotiations, and the show will air on ABC through at least 2028 [1].

The competition for the Oscars broadcast rights heats up, investors and financial professionals should closely monitor the developments. The outcome of this bidding war could have significant implications for the future of live event programming and the broader media landscape.

References:
[1] https://www.linkedin.com/news/story/youtube-plotting-oscars-bid-6507532/
[2] https://sportstar.thehindu.com/other-sports/los-angeles-olympics-2028-venue-naming-rights-comcast-honda-latest-news-updates/article69933510.ece