Deadline is reporting that Disney-owned ABC has extended its contract with the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) allowing the network to broadcast the annual Oscars until 2028. That year will mark the awards’ 100th anniversary. The previous contract would have ended in 2020.
From Deadline:
“We’re honored to continue our storied and successful partnership with ABC in broadcasting the most watched live entertainment event of the year,” said Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences President Cheryl Boone Isaacs in a statement. “In 2028, we’ll mark the Oscars 100th anniversary, and ABC is the perfect partner to help us celebrate the magic of movies with our fans. On behalf of the Academy, I thank Jim Gianopulos, our Academy Treasurer and chair of the Board’s Finance Committee, and Disney/ABC’s Ben Sherwood, for leading these efforts.”
“After hosting the Academy Awards more than 50 times, ABC has become the home for Hollywood’s most prestigious and glamorous night of television. With this new landmark agreement, ABC is proud to showcase the Oscars all the way to their Centennial celebration in 2028,” added Ben Sherwood, co-chairman, Disney Media Networks and president, Disney/ABC Television Group.
“The Academy’s partnership with ABC has been one of the most enduring in Hollywood,” said Academy CEO Dawn Hudson. “Both the Academy and ABC set high bars for excellence, and ABC has a proven passion to help us deliver a great show to our global audience. We couldn’t think of a more trusted collaborator to further our mission of inspiring and connecting the world through film.”
The next Academy Awards will air February 26th, 2017.