Disney acquires broadcast rights to the Grammys in 10-year deal

CBS has recently refocused its efforts on sports and primetime franchises but secured the Golden Globes last year, helping to fill its awards programming roster following this significant departure

In a historic shift for the Grammy Awards, Disney has acquired the broadcast rights to the iconic music event in a landmark ten-year deal, ending CBS’s 50-year partnership with the Recording Academy. Starting in 2027, the Grammys will air across Disney platforms, including ABC, Hulu, and Disney+, marking the first time Disney will host the awards since briefly holding rights in the early 1970s. This new arrangement extends through 2036.

CBS’s exclusive negotiating window with the Recording Academy closed without a deal, opening the door for Disney to submit the winning bid. Despite continued interest from CBS, Disney’s offer was accepted, leading to what Dana Walden, Disney Entertainment Co-Chairman, called an “exciting new chapter” for the Grammys. “Live events have never been more important,” Walden said, adding that the acquisition strengthens Disney’s extensive programming portfolio.

This agreement gives Disney a unique edge in 2027, with The Grammys, The Oscars, and the Super Bowl all slated to air on ABC that year. Harvey Mason Jr., CEO of the Recording Academy, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership with Disney, noting, “This partnership represents another important milestone in the Academy’s transformation and growth.”

CBS has recently refocused its efforts on sports and primetime franchises but secured the Golden Globes last year, helping to fill its awards programming roster following this significant departure.

Published - October 31, 2024 10:25 am IST