How to Watch the Oscars Online for FREE in 2025
Reading time: 11 min
Last Updated: Feb 28, 2025
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Fact-Checked by Sarah Frazier Content Manager
Trying to watch the Oscars 2025 shouldn’t feel like a battle, but it often does. You click around, find streams that don’t work, or hit paywalls that weren’t mentioned. If you’re outside the US, UK, or Australia, it’s even harder because most official streams are blocked. It’s frustrating when all you want is to enjoy the event without jumping through hoops.
Thankfully, there are plenty of ways to watch the 2025 Oscars, whether online or through cable. The event airs in over 200 countries, so chances are you can tune in through a local channel and catch the live broadcast. However, online streaming can get tricky, as most platforms enforce geo-restrictions due to copyright agreements.
Important! Technically, a VPN can help you access region-locked platforms like ITVX, Hulu, and YouTube TV to stream the 2025 Oscars from anywhere. However, this might violate the platforms’ terms of service, and we don’t condone using a VPN for that purpose.
Editor’s Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: ExpressVPN, Cyberghost, Private Internet Access, and Intego. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
Quick Guide: 3 Easy Steps to Watch the 2025 Oscars Online
- Get a VPN — I recommend ExpressVPN because it has high-speed servers in the US and globally, so you can live stream the 2025 Oscars without buffering.
![screenshot of ExpressVPN's website homepage]()
- Connect to a server — Pick a server in a country where the Oscars are streaming, like the US, UK, or Australia.
![Screenshot of ExpressVPN's Mac interface showing list of servers in the US]()
- Start watching the 2025 Oscars — Log in to the streaming service showing the Oscars and enjoy the event live without interruptions.
Editor’s Note: Transparency is one of our core values at WizCase, so you should know we are in the same ownership group as ExpressVPN. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
Why You Need a VPN to Watch the 2025 Oscars Online
Streaming the Oscars 2025 can be tricky if you’re not in a country where the event is officially broadcast. Platforms like ABC, Hulu, and YouTube TV limit access based on location, so you might see an error if you’re streaming from abroad. Even if you’re in a supported country, school, work, or public networks sometimes block streaming sites entirely.
A VPN can help you access the Oscars without interruptions. It routes your connection through a private server, ensuring a smooth, secure streaming experience. Here’s why it’s worth using:
- Stream on blocked networks — A VPN lets you watch the Oscars on networks that block streaming sites, like schools, offices, and public WiFi hotspots. It bypasses these restrictions by routing your connection through an unrestricted server.
- Improve streaming quality — VPNs with dedicated streaming servers offer faster speeds and unlimited bandwidth. This ensures smooth, buffer-free streaming, even when your network administrator is throttling your speeds.
- Protect your privacy — A VPN hides your IP address with AES 256-bit encryption, keeping your location private while streaming the Oscars. This prevents platforms from blocking your connection, and protects your data if you’re watching on public WiFi.
- Maintain a stable connection — Some VPNs offer automatic server switching if one connection becomes slow or unstable. This ensures you don’t miss key moments during the live broadcast.
The Best VPNs to Safely Watch the 2025 Oscars
- ExpressVPN — the best VPN to watch the 2025 Oscars because of its extensive global server coverage and fast speeds that ensure lag-free live streaming. Check out the full ExpressVPN review to see if it’s right for you.
- CyberGhost — has special servers for streaming on platforms like YouTube TV, ITV, and Hulu so you can access your account to watch the 2025 Oscars. Here’s CyberGhost’s extensive review so you can get an idea of what it can do.
- Private Internet Access — has one of the largest networks, with servers in every US state so you can connect to the nearest one and live stream the 2025 Oscars online.
Editor’s Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: ExpressVPN, Cyberghost, Private Internet Access, and Intego. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
How to Watch the 2025 Oscars Official Broadcast in the US
The 2025 Oscars will air live on March 2, 2025, at 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT, with Conan O’Brien hosting the event at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles. The official broadcast will be on ABC, but you don’t need cable to watch. Several streaming platforms carry ABC, making it easy to watch the ceremony live online.
1. Hulu + Live TV
Hulu + Live TV offers the Oscars 2025 live through ABC, making it a top choice for streamers. You’ll get over 95 live channels, including sports, news, and entertainment. Hulu also gives you access to Disney+ and ESPN+, adding more value to your subscription.
Both the $76.99/month ad-supported plan and the $89.99/month ad-free plan include unlimited cloud DVR. This means you can record the entire Oscars and rewatch it anytime. Hulu works on smart TVs, phones, tablets, and streaming devices like Roku and Fire Stick.
2. YouTube TV
YouTube TV streams the Oscars live on ABC, with 4K support for crisp, clear video. It offers great playback features, like “catch up” while the event is still live, letting you rewind if you miss something. The service also allows 3 simultaneous streams, perfect for households.
New users get a 7-day free trial, while the regular plan costs $72.99/month. YouTube TV includes 100+ channels, unlimited DVR, and up to 9 months of storage for your recordings. You can watch on smart TVs, computers, and mobile devices without extra equipment.
3. FuboTV
FuboTV lets you stream the Oscars live on ABC and includes a mix of entertainment, sports, and news channels. It supports 4K resolution, so you get sharp, clear video with minimal buffering. You can watch on smart TVs, streaming devices, and mobile apps.
New users get a 7-day free trial, but you’ll need a payment method at sign-up. After that, the Pro plan costs $79.99/month and includes 1,000 hours of cloud DVR. If you’re planning to watch the event live, set up your account ahead of time to avoid delays.
4. DirecTV Stream
DirecTV Stream offers live ABC access, making it another solid choice for streaming the Oscars 2025. You can watch on smart TVs, computers, tablets, and phones without any special setup. The service includes HD streaming, so you won’t have to deal with low-quality video.
You can start with a 5-day free trial, but payment details are required. After the trial, the Entertainment package costs $79.99/month and includes 75+ channels. The plan comes with 20 hours of DVR storage, but you can upgrade if you need more space.
Where to Watch the 2025 Oscars Outside the US (Without Cable)
| Country | Streaming Service | Paid/Free | Accepted Payment Methods | Free Trial | Languages Available |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| United Kingdom | ITVX | Free | N/A | N/A | English |
| Canada | CTV Go | Free with TV provider | N/A | N/A | English & French |
| Australia | 7plus | Free | N/A | N/A | English |
| Europe (select countries) | Sky Cinema | Paid | Credit/debit card, PayPal | 7 days | English & local languages |
| Spain | Movistar Plus+ | Paid | Credit/debit card | 7 days | Spanish |
| India | Star Movies, Disney + Hotstar | Paid | Credit/debit card, UPI | 7 days | English & Hindi |
Where Can I Watch the 2025 Oscars on Cable?
The 2025 Oscars will air live on cable in over 200 countries, with ABC as the official broadcaster in the US. Networks like ITV, CTV, Star Movies, and Sky Cinema will cover the event globally. Here’s a breakdown of where to watch the Oscars on cable in your country.
| United States | DirecTV, Dish, Spectrum, Xfinity, Mediacom, COX, Verizon, Optimum |
| United Kingdom | ITV1, ITV2 |
| Australia | Seven Network, 7plus |
| Belgium | Play6, Play More, GoPlay, Pickx |
| Canada | CTV, CTV2 |
| Denmark | TV2 Danmark, TV2 Play, TV2 Zulu |
| Hong Kong | ViuTVsix, ViuTV |
| Japan | NHK-G, NHK BS, NHK+, WOWOW On Demand |
| Netherlands | FILMBOX, Film 1, Canal+ |
| South Korea | TVN Limited, OCN, O Choice, Genie TV Mobile, U Play |
Red Carpet Coverage
The Oscars 2025 Red Carpet kicks off the night with live interviews, fashion highlights, and celebrity arrivals. Coverage usually starts 60 to 90 minutes before the main event, giving you a front-row seat to all the pre-show excitement. Expect to see nominees, presenters, and performers sharing their thoughts before the ceremony begins.
You can watch the red carpet live on Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, FuboTV, and DirecTV Stream, all of which stream ABC. The ABC app and ABC.com also offer live coverage if you log in with your TV provider. If you’re using a free trial, make sure it’s set up and active beforehand.
Some platforms, like E! News, provide multi-angle views and backstage coverage alongside the main feed. You can also find red carpet recaps on channels like Entertainment Tonight and People TV after the event.
Films & Actors Nominated at the 2025 Oscars
The 2025 Oscars are shaping up to be one of the most exciting ceremonies yet, with a wide range of films and performances in the spotlight. Leading the pack is Emilia Perez, earning 13 nominations — the most ever for a non-English-language film. The Brutalist and Wicked follow closely, with 10 nominations each. Here are the Best Picture nominees:
| Anora | Conclave | I’m Still Here | The Substance |
| A Complete Unknown | Dune: Part Two | Nickel Boys | Wicked |
In the Best Actress category, Karla Sofia Gascon made history as the first openly transgender performer nominated, recognized for her role in Emilia Perez. She’s joined by Cynthia Erivo (Wicked), Mikey Madison (Anora), Demi Moore (The Substance), and Fernanda Torres (I’m Still Here).
For Best Actor, Adrien Brody (The Brutalist), Timothée Chalamet (A Complete Unknown), Colman Domingo (Sing Sing), Ralph Fiennes (Conclave), and Sebastian Stan (The Substance) are competing for the top prize. Chalamet, at 29, is now the youngest two-time Best Actor nominee since James Dean.
FAQs on Staying Safe While Watching the Oscars
Is using a VPN to watch the 2025 Oscars legal?
Where can I watch the 2025 Oscars online?
Can I stream the 2025 Oscars for free?
I’m having trouble streaming the Oscars, is my VPN the reason?
It’s possible, but your VPN probably isn’t the main reason you can’t stream the Oscars. As long as you choose one of the top VPNs, you should avoid most streaming issues.
Many official broadcasters struggle to handle the user load on their servers during popular events like the Oscars. This can severely impact your connection and even kick you out of the stream entirely. If you find yourself staring at the 404 error or stuck in endless buffering, try refreshing the page or switching to a different VPN server.
Protect Yourself Without Missing a Single Moment of the Oscars
Watching the 2025 Oscars shouldn’t be complicated, but it often is. Between regional restrictions, confusing sign-ups, and streams that crash last minute, it’s easy to get frustrated. Even if you find a working option, buffering can ruin the experience. That’s why knowing the best way to watch, without the hassle, matters.
You can stream the 2025 Oscars on ABC, Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, and FuboTV, while cable viewers can tune in on Sky Cinema, CTV, and more. If you’re traveling or using a restricted network, a VPN can keep your connection secure and stable, so you don’t miss a moment of the show.
Summary — Watch the 2025 Oscars Online With These VPNs
Editor's Note: We value our relationship with our readers, and we strive to earn your trust through transparency and integrity. We are in the same ownership group as some of the industry-leading products reviewed on this site: ExpressVPN, Cyberghost, Private Internet Access, and Intego. However, this does not affect our review process, as we adhere to a strict testing methodology.
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