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NBCU, YouTube Vie for Oscars Broadcast Deal
6 Dec, 2025
Summary
- Academy seeks 5-10 year TV rights deal for Oscars.
- NBCUniversal and YouTube are leading bidders for rights.
- ABC, current partner, is considered less aggressive.
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences is actively negotiating a new broadcast licensing agreement for the Oscars, with a desired term of five to ten years. This strategic partnership is crucial for the Academy's revenue and reinforces the prestige of theatrical filmmaking.
NBCUniversal has gained significant traction in the bidding process, bolstered by its recent successes with live entertainment like the Summer Olympics and Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. YouTube also remains a strong contender, highlighting its substantial viewership from past Oscar content and its position as a leading connected TV app.
Long-time partner ABC, which has aired most Oscar telecasts since 1976, is reportedly less aggressive in its pursuit of a renewed deal. Although ABC emphasizes corporate synergies, including promotions across Disney properties, its recent acquisition of Grammy rights may influence its approach to the Oscars. Netflix and CBS are no longer considered active bidders.
