The Oscars are breaking new ground, inviting fans to tune in virtually like never before. For the first time, the 2025 Academy Awards, officially known as the 97th Academy Awards, will stream live on Hulu, alongside its traditional broadcast on ABC. This significant move provides viewers with more options to catch the glitz and glam of Hollywood’s biggest night from the comfort of their own homes or on the go. Whether you have cable or not, you won’t miss out on the excitement.
The live stream will begin on Sunday, March 2, 2025, at 4 PM PT (7 PM ET), with red carpet coverage kicking off just thirty minutes earlier. Hulu subscribers will also have the opportunity to catch up on the ceremony the next day, making it easier than ever to experience the magic of the Oscars, even if you miss it live.
With Conan O’Brien at the helm as the host, excitement is brewing across various platforms. O’Brien, known for his sharp wit and comedic flair, will take to the stage for his first time hosting the Academy Awards, promising fans a night filled with humor and perhaps some unexpected moments. His previous hosting experience at major award shows, like the Emmys, sets high expectations for this event. "America demanded it, and now it’s happening: Taco Bell's new Cheesy Chalupa Supreme. And oh, I'm hosting the Oscars too," O’Brien quipped, adding humor to the announcement.
The Oscars has faced various reception issues over the years, particularly with declining viewership numbers. Traditionally, stars and films capture the hearts of many, but the changing dynamics of how people consume media are transforming the awards show experience. Streaming the ceremony on Hulu could potentially revitalize viewer interest, with some experts projecting up to 30 million live viewers, similar to peaks seen before the pandemic.
This major streaming milestone isn’t happening in isolation; the Golden Globes, another prestigious awards show, is also making waves by featuring live streaming. Scheduled for January 5, 2025, the Golden Globes will air on CBS but will also be available for streaming on Paramount Plus. This marks the beginning of what seems to be a broader trend toward embracing digital formats, where traditional broadcasts are increasingly being supplemented or replaced by streaming services.
The buzz surrounding the 2025 Oscar nominations is palpable. Fans anticipate the reveal of nominees on January 17, and it’s expected to be fiercely competitive this year. With notable films like Emilia Pérez, The Brutalist, Conclave, and Wicked making their rounds at other award shows, the Oscar race is heating up. The contenders showcase diverse genres, from musicals to psychological thrillers, appealing to various tastes.
Last year’s Oscars garnered 21.5 million viewers, up compared to previous years crippled by the pandemic. The numbers surged as Hollywood gradually returned to its glory days. Many viewers are hopeful for additional upswing with the streaming option. It’s particularly enticing for those without traditional television setups or those who simply prefer streaming content when and where it’s convenient for them.
O'Brien noted the eclectic mix of potential nominees being bandied about, creating suspense for audiences. Titles generating excitement include the musical Wicked, the drama The Brutalist, and the more offbeat offerings like I Saw the TV Glow. Each of these films has already received nods and accolades at other film festivals and award shows, fueling speculation over who will take home Oscar gold.
While Oscar predictions are uncertain, with famous films also coming up for consideration, many entertainment insiders suggest this season could yield some surprises. Stars like Ariana Grande, Timothée Chalamet, and Denzel Washington are all expected to make appearances, and their nominations are hotly anticipated.
Streaming the Oscars on Hulu not only highlights changing media consumption patterns but also reflects the broader evolution of the entertainment industry as it seeks to remain relevant and engaging. The shift to include streaming as part of the Oscar broadcast could redefine how awards shows connect with audiences moving forward. It’s about making the show accessible and keeping pace with how people are watching content today.
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences continues to adapt and innovate, ensuring its relevance within the rapidly changing entertainment sphere. Audiences eagerly await the chance to celebrate the year’s cinematic achievements, and with the February spectacle of Hollywood history, they can now tune in more easily than ever. March 2 is set to be the Oscar night not only for the glitzy performances and heartfelt speeches but also for the innovative bridge between traditional and modern viewing experiences.