Oscars Ratings Hit 17.9 Million Viewers, Down 9% From Last Year
The 98th annual Academy Awards, which aired on ABC and Hulu, saw a decrease in viewership compared to previous years. With 17.86 million viewers tuning in, it marked the lowest-watched Oscars telecast since 2022, down 9% from the previous year’s 19.7 million viewers. Despite the decline, the telecast still managed to rank as the number one primetime entertainment telecast of the 2025-2026 season, according to Disney.
Hosted by Conan O’Brien, the Oscars averaged a 3.92 rating among adults 18-49, a drop from last year’s 4.54 but an improvement from 2024’s 3.82 rating. This decrease in viewership aligns with trends seen in other major awards shows this winter, such as the Golden Globes and the Grammys, which also experienced dips in viewership.
According to Nielsen’s big data plus panel ratings, the Oscars was the top program on Sunday in viewers and across all key demographics. Additionally, ABC reported a 42.4% increase in social impressions this year, with Academy social platforms reaching 21.6 million users compared to 19.7 million the previous year.
The ceremony saw its first viewership drop in five years, following three consecutive years of growth. “One Battle After Another” was the big winner of the night, taking home six Oscars including best picture and best director for Paul Thomas Anderson. “Sinners” also had a strong showing, with Michael B. Jordan winning best actor.
O’Brien received praise for his hosting duties, with Disney confirming that he will continue in the role if he chooses to do so. The Oscars will continue to be broadcast on ABC and Hulu in 2027 and 2028 before transitioning to YouTube for the 101st ceremony in 2029 as part of a new deal.
Overall, while viewership may have dipped this year, the Oscars remains a cultural phenomenon that continues to captivate audiences around the world. Source: Nielsen National Live+Same Day Big Data Plus Panel Program Ratings for 3/15/26. 2025-2026 Season (9/22/25-3/15/26). Comparisons based on Big Data Plus Panel Ratings. Talkwalker Social Content Ratings, based on linear episode-level interactions, U.S.-based activity Twitter Trending Archive.
