Oscars Skyrocket to 5-Year Audience High Amidst ‘Anora’ and Indie Film Surge!

"Oscars Hit 5-Year Audience High with 'Anora' and Indie Films!"

The 97th Oscars attracted 19.7 million viewers, the highest in five years, boosted by "Anora" winning five awards, including best picture.

Sophia Clarke5 March 2025Last Update : 9 hours ago

The Oscars get their biggest audience in 5 years despite dominance of 'Anora' and other small films

apnews.com

The Oscars achieved their biggest audience in five years on March 5, 2025, with an impressive 19.7 million viewers tuning in. This surge in interest comes despite the spotlight on smaller films like “Anora,” which won five Oscars, including Best Picture. Are audiences shifting their preferences, or is it the allure of live events that keeps them engaged?

6 Key Takeaways

19.7 million viewers for Oscars 2025
"Anora" won five Oscars, including best picture
Significant viewer increase among ages 18-49
Oscars still outdraw other awards shows
Hulu livestream cut off during key moments
Viewership rebounded from pandemic lows

Fast Answer: The 97th Academy Awards saw a significant rise in viewership, attracting 19.7 million viewers, the highest in five years. Smaller films like “Anora” captured attention, showcasing a shift in audience interests. The show remains a key player in the entertainment landscape, outpacing other awards shows.

Oscars 2025: A Night of Surprising Wins and Record Viewership

What made this year’s Oscars stand out? The ceremony not only celebrated smaller films but also captivated a younger audience. With Conan O’Brien as host and performances from stars like Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, the show had a vibrant energy. Viewers are clearly responding to fresh talent and unique stories. Will this trend continue in future awards seasons?

Success! The Oscars’ rise in viewership is a positive sign for the future of live events in the U.S. Audiences are eager for engaging content, especially from diverse and innovative films.

Key Highlights from the 97th Academy Awards

This year’s Oscars were marked by several notable achievements:

“Anora” won five Oscars, including Best Picture.
The show attracted 19.7 million viewers, the highest since 2020.
Conan O’Brien hosted, bringing a lively atmosphere.
Performances by stars from “Wicked” added excitement to the night.

Viewership Trends: Why Are More People Watching the Oscars?

The increase in viewership can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, the Oscars have adapted to changing viewer habits, especially among younger audiences. Many viewers watched via mobile devices, showcasing a shift in how people consume entertainment. Additionally, the presence of popular films like “Wicked” and the success of “Anora” drew in diverse demographics.

The Impact of Smaller Films on the Oscars

Smaller films have historically struggled to compete with blockbusters, but this year’s results suggest a change. “Anora” not only won big but also resonated with audiences seeking fresh narratives. This trend may encourage more filmmakers to explore unique stories, knowing they can achieve recognition at prestigious events like the Oscars.

What’s Next for the Academy Awards?

Looking ahead, the Oscars face the challenge of maintaining this momentum. Will they continue to embrace smaller films and diverse voices? As the entertainment landscape evolves, the Academy must adapt to keep audiences engaged. The success of this year’s ceremony sets a hopeful precedent for future events.