Only eight weeks remain until Oscar nominations are revealed, and the competition extends beyond artists and technicians pursuing accolades. Interest is growing in the auction for TV broadcast rights to the Academy Awards, as reported by Variety based on recent discussions with insiders involved in the negotiations.
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has been actively searching for a new licensing agreement for 2025, which is crucial for both revenue and maintaining a focus on elevating theatrical films as the pinnacle of artistic expression. Many sources reveal that the Academy is aiming for a contract lasting between 5 to 10 years.
ABC has been the Academy’s broadcast partner for a long time and holds the rights to air the ceremony until 2028, culminating in the landmark 100th Oscars. Reports during the summer indicated a variety of unconventional contenders for the rights, including Netflix and YouTube, but interest appears to be waning due to financial uncertainties surrounding the Oscars’ production.
According to two sources, Netflix is no longer in the running. Although they showed initial interest, the prospective new owner of Warner Bros. has withdrawn. Additionally, CBS, owned by David Ellison’s Paramount, was not significantly involved in discussions, despite previous speculation.
NBCUniversal is emerging as a serious contender, as noted by three sources close to the Academy’s talks. Following a successful airing of the 2024 Summer Olympics, NBCUniversal is enhancing its brand as a live entertainment producer and is in a strong position to promote the Oscars, especially with the upcoming Los Angeles Olympic Games in 2028 presenting extensive marketing opportunities for its potential Oscar broadcast in 2029. YouTube remains an active bidder, capitalizing on its vast viewership and popularity for past Academy clips.
ABC has aired most Oscars throughout history and has been a dependable partner since 1976. By 2028, they will have hosted 50 consecutive ceremonies. While some insiders worry that ABC might not secure a new deal, others emphasize the value of their longstanding relationship with the Academy, noting synergy with Disney’s promotional activities. Disagreements over ABC’s commitment exist, but there is optimism regarding their partnership.
At the heart of these negotiations lies financial considerations. While precise dollar amounts requested by the Academy from potential partners remain elusive, a consensus has formed among ABC, NBCUniversal, and YouTube: “We’re not overpaying.” ABC reportedly spends about $120 million annually on the Oscars, which raises eyebrows considering the declining ratings that awards shows face in the streaming era. Despite this year’s ratings peak, the numbers remain significantly lower than a decade ago, creating more complexity around the negotiations.
