In a development that seems long overdue, the Academy Awards will finally be streamed live, aligning with the way many major awards shows are broadcast these days. The 2025 Oscars will stream on Hulu at the same time they air on ABC, reflecting a shift in viewing habits as more people cut the cord and rely on streaming services for their entertainment needs. Under the leadership of Disney, the ceremony will be available to viewers coast-to-coast at 4 PM PT and 7 PM ET.
This decision comes at a time when awards shows are clamoring to capture viewer attention. The Golden Globes have already adapted to this change, having streamed on platforms like NBC’s Peacock in 2023, followed by CBS and Paramount+ with Showtime in 2024. However, there was a catch for those on Paramount+’s Essential tier, as they had to wait an extra day for streaming access. The Grammys have been more forward-thinking, streaming live on Paramount+ since 2023. Earlier this year, the Recording Academy inked a decade-long deal with Disney to stream the Grammys starting in 2027, ensuring they too will be simulcast on ABC, Hulu, and Disney+.
It’s almost surprising that the Academy Awards have taken this long to implement simultaneous streaming, given the push from media conglomerates to build audiences on their platforms. But now, the Oscars are catching up, which should come as welcome news to movie buffs who have ditched traditional cable.
Hosting duties for the 2025 Oscars will be handled by Conan O’Brien. His brand of humor and extensive television experience promises a fresh take on the ceremony. The announcement of O’Brien comes after Ryan Reynolds declined due to a busy schedule, along with a hefty side of anxiety over the role.
Anticipation for the Oscars begins well before the glitzy event. The Oscars shortlist will be announced on December 17, as detailed by Deadline, and the official nominations will be revealed on January 17.
Closing Credits
The decision to stream the Oscars on Hulu marks a significant shift in how the ceremony is delivered to audiences, showcasing an adaptation to modern viewing preferences. As we move closer to the 2025 event, cinephiles and casual viewers alike will find new ways to engage with one of Hollywood’s most prestigious nights. Keep an eye on December 17 for the shortlist disclosure and mark January 17 for the nominations announcement. The Oscars, alongside Conan O’Brien’s wit, are gearing up for an evening that might just make the wait worthwhile. Stay tuned for updates, as this could change how we experience awards shows in the streaming era.
