The Emmy Awards are set to make a significant move to Prime Video from 2027 onwards, as Amazon and the Television Academy have agreed to a six-year partnership. This marks the end of a long-standing tradition of broadcast networks airing the prestigious ceremony, which has been a staple on network television since 1955.
The announcement of this agreement signifies a notable shift towards streaming platforms that have been dominating the top categories at the Emmys. Previously, the awards rotated annually among ABC, CBS, Fox, and NBC as part of the “Wheel Deal,” but now, the move to a single long-term home with Prime Video starting from next September’s awards could be the most significant change yet.
Chairman of the Television Academy, Cris Abrego, emphasized the importance of continuity in the new partnership, highlighting the benefits of building a long-term relationship with one partner over six years to enhance the awards show.
In a unique move, the Emmys will remain accessible to viewers for free, consistent with the Academy’s insistence on maintaining the ceremony’s availability without requiring a Prime Video subscription.
This development mirrors the Oscars’ recent deal with YouTube, which will exclusively stream the ceremony starting in 2029, whereas the Emmys’ agreement with Prime Video is effective immediately.
The drop in viewership across various awards shows has been a challenge in today’s segmented culture, with the Emmys facing a decline from over 20 million viewers at its peak to around seven million currently. However, Amazon and the Academy are optimistic about Prime Video’s potential to attract more viewers by showcasing Emmy-nominated content and targeting a younger audience.
While acknowledging the significance of transitioning to streaming services, Abrego stressed that the focus remains on recognizing excellence in television content, regardless of the delivery platform.
Looking ahead to the future, Abrego mentioned the possibility of exploring date changes for the ceremony in collaboration with Amazon, indicating a willingness to adapt to evolving preferences and trends in the industry.
