On March 2nd, the highly anticipated live stream of the Academy Awards on Hulu faced an unexpected setback. The streaming service cut off its broadcast prematurely, leaving many subscribers disappointed as they missed several key moments and award presentations. This incident occurred just after the Best Actor award was announced, preventing viewers from witnessing other significant categories like Best Actress, Best Director, and Best Picture. Despite initial excitement over Hulu’s expansion into live streaming for its on-demand customers, this technical glitch highlighted challenges in delivering a seamless viewing experience.

Premature End to Hulu’s First Oscars Live Stream Leaves Viewers Frustrated

In the heart of Hollywood’s most glamorous night, a new era of Oscars viewing was set to begin. On March 2nd, Hulu ventured into uncharted territory by offering the prestigious ceremony live to its on-demand subscribers for the first time. This move aimed to attract a younger audience that prefers on-demand platforms while still enjoying live events. However, the evening took an unfortunate turn when the stream abruptly ended with a “Thanks for Watching” message, followed by repetitive commercials. Crucial moments, including the announcement of Best Actress, Best Director, and Best Picture, were missed by countless viewers who had eagerly tuned in.

The decision to extend live streaming access to a broader audience was met with enthusiasm, as it broke traditional broadcasting boundaries. Traditionally, the Oscars have been aired on ABC, with limited streaming options available through services like Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, or Sling TV. By broadening its reach, Hulu hoped to capture the attention of cord-cutting viewers who favor on-demand platforms but still appreciate live ceremonies. Unfortunately, the technical hitch overshadowed these ambitions.

Despite the mishap, the event itself continued without interruption. Host Conan O’Brien kept the audience entertained, and notable winners included Adrien Brody for Best Actor and Mikey Madison for Best Actress, both for their roles in the film "Anora," which also won Best Picture.

Meanwhile, Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos hinted at his company’s interest in bidding for future rights to the Oscars, signaling a potential shift in how the awards might be streamed in coming years.

This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of reliable technology in live broadcasts. As streaming services continue to expand their offerings, ensuring a flawless viewing experience will be crucial for maintaining viewer trust and satisfaction. For now, Hulu faces the challenge of regaining the confidence of its subscribers who experienced this unforeseen disruption.