This week, Disney and The Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences announced that Disney Media Distribution has extended its global distribution contract for the Academy Awards through 2020. The agreement allows Disney to cover sales of the Oscars to international networks and media platforms.
While ABC is currently the long-term home of the awards ceremony domestically, recently renewing their contract with the Academy through 2020, Disney’s international agreement was set to expire in 2014 prior to the renewal. The Academy Awards are broadcast each year to over 225 countries and territories around the world, both through traditional broadcast outlets and through such new media outlets as online streaming services and video on demand.
In a statement, Disney/ABC Television Group president Anne Sweeney said:
“We are excited to be able to extend our agreement to deliver the world’s biggest celebration of entertainment to audiences around the globe. We look forward to building on the foundation of our relationship with the Academy, and working together to reach new audiences on new platforms in the years ahead.”
The next Academy Awards telecast is scheduled for February 24, 2013. For more information about the Academy Awards, visit its official website.