Amazon Lands Six-Year Emmys Deal Worth Over $120 Million
Amazon has secured a landmark six-year deal to stream the Emmys, replacing the rotating broadcast network system that has been in place since 1995. The agreement, valued at over $120 million in total, between $20 million and $25 million annually, will make the awards ceremony free to view on Prime Video globally each September.
The deal marks a significant shift from the previous model, where networks like ABC, CBS, Fox, and NBC took turns airing the event for $8 million to $10 million per year. Mike Hopkins, head of Prime Video and Amazon MGM Studios, emphasized the goal of transforming the Emmys into a global event, appealing to younger audiences and innovating the production format.
Television Academy chair Cris Abrego highlighted the need to evolve the model, stating that the rotating broadcast system was inefficient. He stressed that making the show free to view was a non-negotiable priority for the Academy. Hopkins noted that while Amazon has a large ad business and other economic levers, the focus is on celebrating television and its partners throughout the year.
Both Amazon and the Academy aim to make the Emmys more relevant to younger viewers, potentially exploring new formats and promotional strategies. Hopkins joked about the possibility of MrBeast hosting the event, though no specific plans have been announced. Abrego emphasized the importance of starting conversations about the show’s format and categories sooner rather than later.