Emmy Awards Leave Broadcast Networks for Amazon Prime Video in Six-Year Deal

Key points

• The Television Academy and Amazon Prime Video announced a six-year deal on October 6, 2026, to exclusively stream the Emmy Awards starting in September 2027.
• The ceremony will be free to view worldwide and will not require a Prime Video subscription, according to the Television Academy.
• The deal replaces the 'wheel deal' rotation among ABC, CBS, Fox, and NBC, which concluded with the 2026 ceremony on NBC.
• Amazon is expected to pay at least $15 million annually for the rights, according to the Los Angeles Times, though financial terms were not officially disclosed.
• The move aims to modernize the event and engage younger viewers, as streaming platforms now rival broadcast TV in popularity.

Background

The Emmy Awards have been broadcast on traditional television since 1949, with a rotation among major networks since the mid-1990s. The 2026 ceremony on NBC saw a 10% decline in viewership compared to 2025, partly due to scheduling conflicts with 'Sunday Night Football.' The shift to streaming follows the Oscars' move to YouTube in 2029, reflecting a broader industry trend toward digital platforms.

How outlets are covering it

The Television Academy, led by Chair Cris Abrego, emphasized the need for a consistent partner to bolster relationships with advertisers and talent, citing frustrations with the annual rotation. Amazon's Mike Hopkins highlighted the opportunity to celebrate storytellers year-round and leverage its global subscriber base. The Los Angeles Times noted that the move reflects declining interest from broadcasters as streaming platforms gain prominence, while The New York Times framed it as a historic shift away from broadcast TV. CNN's coverage was limited to the headline, offering no additional details.

Why it matters

The move signals a significant shift in how major entertainment events are distributed, reflecting the growing dominance of streaming platforms over traditional broadcast networks. It could influence future decisions for other awards ceremonies and reshape the media landscape by prioritizing global reach and digital engagement over traditional TV audiences.

What to watch

The first Prime Video broadcast of the Emmy Awards is scheduled for September 2027. The Television Academy may adjust the awards calendar to occur earlier in the year, such as in May, to keep the shows fresh. Amazon plans to use the deal to promote its streaming services and engage a global audience.