When news spread that Hulu would no longer carry the Oscars, many viewers were surprised by the streaming service decision. The move reshaped how live award shows reach modern audiences, highlighting shifts in sports and entertainment rights.
For cord-cutters, live-TV subscribers, and ad-supported plan users, understanding why Hulu stopped streaming the Oscars and what alternatives exist is essential. The following sections break down the reasons, impacts, and practical options available.
| Platform | Live Oscars Access | Included With | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hulu + Live TV | Prior carriage, ended 2022 | Live plan add-on | Contract not renewed; moved to ESPN+ and other partners |
| YouTube TV | Often carries Oscars | Live TV plan | Availability depends on local ABC and regional agreements |
| FuboTV | Frequently carries Oscars | Sports & Entertainment plans | Designed for live events, strong channel lineup |
| FreeOvation | Free over-the-air on ABC | Antenna or broadcast TV | No subscription required; best cost option |
Why Hulu Stopped Broadcasting the Oscars
The decision reflects broader industry shifts in how awards shows are packaged for streaming. Licensing costs, limited reach on subscription tiers, and competition from linear-friendly platforms drove Hulu to prioritize other live events.
Content owners like ABC value broad distribution, which can mean favoring services that bundle the Oscars with must-have channels. Hulu’s negotiations focus on cost per viewer, and the Oscars did not always meet internal targets.
Impact on Cord-Cutting and Live TV Subscribers
For households relying on Hulu + Live TV, the removal meant finding a new home for the ceremony or buying a one-time digital rental. This change pushed some users to evaluate whether their current plan justified the cost.
Competition among services that carry primetime events increased, with providers highlighting their ability to keep major awards in their lineup. Users who value live viewing now compare channel grids more carefully when choosing a service.
Where to Watch the Oscars Without Hulu
Even without Hulu, multiple legal paths exist, from free broadcast to premium digital. Choosing the right option depends on budget, device preferences, and how live you want the experience.
Streaming services that maintain strong channel lineups often add regional ABC affiliates, ensuring local over-the-air coverage appears online for subscribers.
Alternatives and Comparisons
Several services routinely carry the Oscars, and comparing features and pricing helps viewers align with their habits. Availability varies by market, so checking local listings for ABC or affiliated channels is crucial.
| Service | Typical Oscars Access | Best Plan for Live Awards | Typical Starting Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| FuboTV | Often included | Entertainment or Sports | ~$69.99/month |
| YouTube TV | Depending on market | Unlimited plan | ~$72.99/month |
| DirecTV Stream | Varies by package | Plus or Premier | ~$70–80/month |
| FreeOvation | Local ABC broadcast | Not applicable | Free with antenna |
Key Takeaways and Recommended Actions
- Confirm local ABC availability on your streaming service or with an antenna before awards night.
- Compare channel lineups and pricing across FuboTV, YouTube TV, and other live TV services if Oscars access is important.
- Use a digital rental as a reliable backup if live carriage is missing from your plan.
- Leverage free OTA broadcast through an HD antenna for guaranteed no-cost viewing.
- Check regional and market variations, because carriage can differ significantly by location and provider.
FAQ
Reader questions
Why did Hulu remove the Oscars from its lineup?
Hulu stopped carrying the Oscars due to licensing costs and limited reach on ad-supported tiers compared with more live-TV focused plans; the ceremony moved to services that better meet ABC distribution goals.
Can I still watch the Oscars for free if I use Hulu?
Yes, you can watch the Oscars for free with an HD antenna and a local ABC station in your market; streaming through the ABC app or website using your cable or streaming-TV login can also provide access in some areas.
What should I do if the Oscars are blacked out on my Hulu Live plan?
Check your plan’s included channels, add a local broadcast pair if available, or use an HD antenna to receive over-the-air ABC; if you only want the Oscars, consider a low-cost digital rental as a backup.
Which streaming services carry the Oscars most reliably year after year?
Services such as FuboTV and YouTube TV have strong records of carrying the Oscars when local ABC feeds are available, but you should confirm regional carriage each year and keep a free antenna option as backup.