In a bold move that could reshape awards season, Netflix Co-CEO Ted Sarandos has revealed the streaming giant’s interest in securing a deal to broadcast the Academy Awards once the current television contract with ABC concludes. Speaking on the red carpet to Variety, Ted Sarandos said Netflix will be looking into a streaming deal for the Oscars.
The Academy Awards have been a staple on broadcast television for decades, with ABC holding the rights since 1976. The current contract runs through 2028, but with streaming platforms increasingly dominating entertainment consumption, the Academy has reportedly begun informal discussions with potential new partners.
Netflix’s interest comes as no surprise given its aggressive push into live events and prestige programming. The streamer has already made inroads with high-profile awards campaigns, securing multiple Oscar wins in recent years, including Best Director for Alfonso Cuarón’s Roma in 2019 and Best Picture for All Quiet on the Western Front in 2023. Hosting the Oscars would cement Netflix’s status as a Hollywood heavyweight, bridging its tech-driven roots with the industry’s storied traditions.
Sarandos highlighted the potential for innovation, noting, “Streaming opens up possibilities—interactive features, behind-the-scenes access, and a seamless experience across devices. Imagine viewers in over 190 countries tuning in live, engaging with the show in real time, and revisiting iconic moments instantly. That’s the future we want to build.” He also pointed to Netflix’s recent forays into live programming, such as the upcoming NFL games on Christmas Day 2025 and WWE’s Raw, as proof of the platform’s capability to handle massive global broadcasts.
However, the prospect of the Oscars moving to streaming isn’t without challenges. Traditionalists argue that broadcast TV ensures broader accessibility, particularly for older audiences less inclined to stream. Critics also question whether Netflix’s subscription model could limit viewership compared to free-to-air networks.
The Academy has yet to comment officially, but insiders suggest they’re intrigued by Netflix’s global footprint and data-driven insights into viewer preferences. As the 2028 deadline looms, the Oscars’ next chapter could redefine awards shows in the digital age—potentially with Netflix leading the charge.
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