The 98th Academy Awards are more than just a ceremony; they are a bridge to a new era for the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. With a 2029 move to YouTube on the horizon, the organization is focused on becoming a more global, year-round resource for film fans. This vision includes digitizing historical archives and expanding the reach of museum programming through Google Arts and Culture.
President Lynette Howell Taylor and CEO Bill Kramer are already laying the groundwork for this transition by making the 98th show more digital-friendly. Ratings for the last two years have shown a significant “lift” among younger viewers who prefer streaming to traditional cable. The Academy is meeting this demand by offering live access on Hulu and collaborating with digital influencers.
The 2026 ceremony, hosted by Conan O’Brien, will introduce the Achievement in Casting award, the first new category since 2001. This move is part of a broader effort to ensure the Oscars reflect the collaborative nature of modern filmmaking. The new category will be given a “gorgeous spotlight” during the March 15 broadcast at the Dolby Theatre.
The In Memoriam segment will honor a long list of legendary figures, including Robert Duvall and Catherine O’Hara. Producers are treating the segment with “special attention” to ensure it is robust, moving, and respectful of the year’s major losses. A more comprehensive list of those lost will be available on the Oscars’ digital hub for global fans.
The Academy’s ultimate goal is a 2029 move to YouTube, a move that CEO Bill Kramer says is all about “reach and growing audiences.” This partnership will turn the Oscars into a year-round brand that offers educational and museum programming. By digitizing their archives for public access, the Academy is ensuring its legacy survives in a digital-first world.