A historic shift just happened in the film world — one that could change how millions experience the biggest night in cinema.

The Academy Awards (Oscars) — Hollywood’s most prestigious awards ceremony — will move off traditional broadcast TV and onto YouTube starting in 2029, a deal that marks a dramatic shift in entertainment distribution and audience reach. Reuters+1

This is more than just a change in platform. For African creators, filmmakers, and media entrepreneurs, this signals something powerful: the future of how audiences consume major cultural moments is digital, free, and global — and Africa can’t be left behind.

📺 What Just Happened With the Oscars?

For almost 50 years, the Oscars have been broadcast on the US television network ABC. Starting in 2029, that changes. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has signed a multi-year exclusive deal with YouTube, meaning the Oscars — including the ceremony, red carpet events, nominee announcements, and other Academy content — will stream live and free worldwide on the platform until at least 2033. Reuters+1

This isn’t just a livestream — it’s a global celebration of cinema that reaches over 2 billion viewers across every continent. AP News

ABC will still broadcast the Awards through 2028, including the Oscars’ 100th anniversary ceremony, but after that YouTube takes over. Reuters

🌍 Why This Move Matters for Creators Everywhere

1. Audiences Are No Longer Just Watching TV

Streaming platforms and digital video services have reshaped how people watch content. Traditional TV ratings have declined over the years as viewers — especially young people — turn to digital platforms where they can watch anytime, anywhere. TheWrap

YouTube’s massive global audience means that cinema’s biggest night is no longer restricted by geography or cable subscriptions. It’s accessible to anyone with an internet connection.

That’s huge for African audiences — and even bigger for creators whose work connects with people online.

2. This Sets a New Path for African Filmmakers

Historically, African films and stories fought for space on global television channels. But digital platforms like YouTube democratize access. They make it possible for films from Africa to reach a global viewership without traditional gatekeepers.

The Oscars going to YouTube is a wake-up call: digital is not the future — it is the present.

3. Creators Can Now Think Bigger

YouTube’s partnership with the Oscars isn’t limited to just the main awards show. Behind-the-scenes content, red carpet moments, and related Academy events are part of the package. AP News

For creators on Haske247 and across Africa, this means:

• You can learn directly from how global audiences react to world cinema.

• You can publish stories and reactions that connect with global film culture.

• You can build international visibility without waiting for traditional broadcast deals.

📈 What This Means for the Future of African Content

This move signals a larger trend:

✔ Broadcast TV is losing its cultural dominance
✔ Digital platforms are becoming the main stage
✔ Creators must adapt to where audiences are — online

For Haske247’s community of creators — filmmakers, musicians, writers, and content innovators — this shift is both a challenge and an opportunity.

🔮 Final Thoughts: Be Ahead, Not Behind

The Oscars moving to YouTube is a milestone for global storytelling — and a reminder that:

✨ Cultural relevance is now measured in clicks, streams, and global engagement.
✨ Africa’s creative voice counts when the audience is not just local, but global.
✨ Digital platforms are the future stages where African stories will shine.

At Haske247, we believe that creatives who embrace these shifts early are the ones who will define the next generation of African cinema and entertainment.

Let’s learn from history — and help make it. 🎬