The Emmy Awards will transition to Prime Video from 2027 onward as part of a six-year deal between Amazon and the Television Academy, marking the conclusion of a seven-decade tradition of broadcast networks airing the ceremony. This shift to streaming services aligns with the trend of such platforms dominating the prestigious categories at the Emmys.
Traditionally broadcast on one of the four major networks since 1955, the awards show has rotated annually between ABC, CBS, Fox, and NBC for the past thirty years as part of the “Wheel Deal.” However, having a consistent home starting with the upcoming September awards is a significant departure.
Emphasizing continuity, Cris Abrego, chairman of the Television Academy, highlighted the benefits of a long-term partnership, allowing for continuous growth and improvement over the years. Notably, the Emmys will remain free to watch without the need for a Prime Video subscription, a condition set by the Academy from the outset.
In a parallel move to the Oscars, which will stream exclusively on YouTube starting in 2029, the immediate effectiveness of this agreement underscores the urgency for action. Prime Video aims to leverage its platform to potentially reverse the declining viewership trend seen across most award shows, with the Emmys currently attracting around seven million viewers, down from over twenty million at its peak.
Amazon and the Academy see Prime Video as a hub for Emmy programming, offering a diverse range of content that could appeal to a wider audience, including younger viewers. This strategic partnership intends to promote Emmy nominees throughout the year, encouraging viewers to engage with the nominated shows and the awards ceremony.
While acknowledging the significance of the streaming transition, Abrego emphasized that the quality of content remains paramount over the delivery method. He reiterated the Academy’s commitment to recognizing excellence regardless of the viewing platform.
Amazon’s experience in live events, including sports broadcasts, positions Prime Video as a hybrid service that combines live and on-demand content. Looking ahead, the flexibility to explore different timing options for the Emmy Awards beyond 2027 remains open, reflecting a willingness to adapt to evolving preferences and audience needs.