Oscars Viewership Dips Despite ‘Sinners’ and ‘One Battle After Another’ Success
Despite the box office success of films like “Sinners” and “One Battle After Another,” the 98th Academy Awards experienced a 9% drop in viewership in the US, reaching 17.9 million viewers on ABC and Hulu. This marks a four-year low for the ceremony.
The Blockbuster Paradox: Box Office Doesn’t Guarantee Eyes on the Screen
“Sinners” grossed $280 million domestically and $370 million worldwide, although “One Battle After Another” earned $72 million domestically and $210 million globally. These figures suggest strong public interest in the films honored at the Oscars. However, this didn’t translate into a larger audience for the broadcast itself. This raises questions about the evolving relationship between film popularity and awards display viewership.
Interestingly, 2025 saw a five-year high in viewership, driven by interest in cinema’s recovery post-COVID, despite the winning film, “Anora,” being an arthouse release with a $20 million domestic gross.
Shifting Demographics and Audience Engagement
Audience approval ratings also declined, averaging 3.92 out of five among the 18-49 age group, down from 4.54 in the previous year. However, ratings were up from 3.82 in 2024. Despite the dip, the Oscars remain the top primetime entertainment telecast of the 2025-26 season, outpacing the Golden Globes (8.66 million viewers) and the Grammys (14.4 million viewers).
The show saw a 42% increase in social impressions, reaching 184 million, and increased engagement on Academy social platforms, indicating a shift in how audiences consume and discuss the awards.
Conan O’Brien’s Continued Hosting and Production Challenges
Disney executive Rob Mills expressed satisfaction with Conan O’Brien’s performance as host, confirming his potential return for the following year. However, the broadcast wasn’t without issues. Audio glitches and concerns about rushed acceptance speeches, particularly one from composer Yu-Han Lee, drew criticism.
Mills acknowledged the issues with the acceptance speeches, stating the production team needs to “look really, really long and hard at” finding a solution.
The Move to YouTube: A Future Strategy
The Oscars will remain on ABC and Hulu for two more years before transitioning to YouTube in 2029, coinciding with the 100th Academy Awards. The deal with YouTube extends through at least 2033. O’Brien even referenced the move in a skit during the ceremony.
FAQ
Q: Did the Oscars viewership increase or decrease this year?
A: Viewership decreased by 9% in the US, reaching 17.9 million.
Q: Which films performed well at the box office but didn’t necessarily boost Oscar viewership?
A: “Sinners” and “One Battle After Another” were both box office successes.
Q: When will the Oscars move to YouTube?
A: The Oscars will move to YouTube in 2029.
Q: Who hosted the 98th Academy Awards?
A: Conan O’Brien hosted the 98th Academy Awards.
Q: What issues were raised regarding the 98th Academy Awards broadcast?
A: Audio glitches and concerns about rushed acceptance speeches were raised.
Did you understand? Michael B. Jordan won the Oscar for Best Actor for his role in “Sinners.”
Pro Tip: Social media engagement surrounding the Oscars is increasing, suggesting a need for the Academy to focus on multi-platform strategies.
What are your thoughts on the future of awards shows? Share your opinions in the comments below!
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