What's Happening?
Disney is planning to integrate Hulu into Disney+ by 2026, which could significantly impact the broadcasting of the Academy Awards. The current deal between the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences and ABC is set to expire in 2028. Disney's acquisition of Comcast's remaining equity in Hulu paves the way for innovative streaming solutions for the Oscars. The dual-platform experiment in March 2025, where the Oscars were broadcast on ABC and streamed on Hulu, showed promising results with a 1% increase in viewership, reaching 19.7 million viewers. This integration offers Disney a global reach and provides the Academy with a prestigious platform for one of the year's biggest entertainment events.
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Why It's Important?
The integration of Hulu into Disney+ represents a strategic move that could redefine awards broadcasting in the streaming era. For Disney, aligning with the Academy Awards enhances its content ecosystem, spanning various media outlets and streaming services. This partnership could lead to year-round Academy programming, including documentaries and exclusive educational content on Disney+. The Academy benefits from reaching younger, more diverse audiences, crucial for maintaining long-term relevance. However, other media platforms have shown interest in hosting the Oscars, indicating that Disney must present a compelling offer to secure the deal.
What's Next?
Negotiations between Disney and the Academy are reportedly progressing well, with industry insiders predicting clarity on the future of the Oscars broadcasting by the end of the year. Disney's technological infrastructure offers capabilities beyond traditional broadcasters, such as real-time engagement and global distribution. The newly appointed AMPAS President Lynette Howell Taylor, with her deep industry ties, could play a pivotal role in finalizing the agreement. As talks advance, the potential for a continued partnership or a new player entering the mix remains a pressing question for film industry insiders.
Beyond the Headlines
The integration of Hulu into Disney+ could lead to innovative Oscar experiences, such as interactive features and international filmmaker showcases. This development highlights the evolving nature of media consumption, where streaming platforms are becoming central to delivering prestigious events. The partnership between Disney and the Academy could set a precedent for how global audiences engage with high-profile awards shows, emphasizing the importance of artistic excellence and technological advancement.
