How to Watch the 2019 Academy Awards
The 91st Academy Awards took place on February 24, 2019. If you missed the live broadcast, you can still watch the ceremony on demand through many services. This guide outlines the primary U.S. television and streaming options, including costs and regional notes, so you can find a reliable way to view the show.
Television Broadcast Details
In the United States, the Oscars 2019 aired on ABC, a major over-the-air network available on cable, satellite, and increasingly through streaming TV services that carry local channels. If you had a standard pay TV package, you likely had access to ABC. For cord-cutters, streaming TV providers are a convenient way to access the channel live.
Streaming TV Options
Several major streaming TV services include local channels in their base packages. Availability can differ by city, so it is best to confirm the channel lineup for your ZIP code. Below are common services that typically carried ABC at the time, along with approximate monthly costs.
| Service | Plan with Local Channels | Approximate Monthly Cost* |
|---|---|---|
| YouTube TV | Yes | ~ $73 |
| FuboTV | Yes | ~ $65 |
| Hulu + Live TV | Yes | ~ $65 |
| DIRECTV Stream | Yes | ~ $70 |
*Costs are approximate and can vary by region and promotions. Check each service for current pricing and local channel availability.
Online Platforms and Apps
Even without traditional TV, you can watch the Oscars 2019 using network apps and streaming platforms. In the U.S., the ABC app and ABC.com allowed authenticated streaming for subscribers of participating TV providers. If you did not have cable or a streaming TV subscription, you could explore the following options.
- ABC.com and the ABC app: Available to cable or streaming TV subscribers in the U.S.
- Network partners: Some services may have offered live streaming through network-specific apps or websites.
- Digital rental or purchase: Platforms such as Apple TV, Amazon Video, Google Play, and Vudu sometimes offer rentals or purchases a few days after the live event.
Cable, Satellite, and Streaming Devices
If you prefer to watch on a smart TV or streaming device, the ABC app may be available on platforms like Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, and select smart TVs. Using your TV provider’s login, you can often access the live stream and on-demand content through these devices.
International Viewing Options
Outside the U.S., the Oscars 2019 were often carried by local television networks or cable channels. In Canada, for example, the ceremony aired on CTV. Viewers in other regions should check local listings or the official Academy Awards website for broadcaster information in their country.
Common Questions About Watching the Oscars 2019
Was there a free way to watch the Oscars 2019 live?
In the U.S., the live broadcast on ABC was not offered free without a TV subscription. However, some TV providers offered limited-time free trials that could be used to watch the ceremony. After the live broadcast, clips and highlights were typically available on ABC platforms and official Academy social channels.
Can I watch the Oscars 2019 now on streaming services?
The full live broadcast may not always be available on subscription streaming services, but films featured in the ceremony can appear on various streaming platforms in the months following the awards. Individual documentaries or features sometimes become available to rent or buy shortly after the event.
What time did the Oscars 2019 start?
In the U.S. Eastern Time Zone, the ceremony usually began in the late afternoon or early evening. Pre-show coverage often started a few hours before the official start time.
Alternatives If You Missed Live Coverage
If you were unable to watch the Oscars 2019 live, there are several ways to catch up. On-demand streaming through a TV provider’s app, digital rental or purchase, and highlight packages are reliable ways to view key moments. Short-form clips and recap videos are also widely available on video platforms within hours after the show ends.
Quick Comparison of Options
| Option | Requires TV Subscription? | Access Type |
|---|---|---|
| ABC TV provider | Yes | Live + on-demand |
| Streaming TV services with local channels | Yes (subscription) | Live + on-demand |
| Network app (authenticated) | Yes | On-demand |
| Digital rental or purchase | No | On-demand |
| Official highlights and clips | No | Free on-demand |
Final Notes
Watching the Oscars 2019 is most reliable through a TV provider or a streaming TV service that includes local channels. Plans and availability can change, so it is best to confirm current options with the service and check for updates on the official Academy website. This evergreen overview remains useful for understanding how to access past and future Oscar broadcasts.