Disney+ Takes Over Oscars Broadcast in France
In a significant shift in broadcasting rights, Disney+ will exclusively air the upcoming Oscars ceremony in France, ending its long-standing partnership with Canal+. The 97th Academy Awards will be held on March 2, 2025, at the Dolby Theater in Los Angeles, with live coverage from the red carpet. Julia Tenret, director of acquisitions and programming for Disney+, confirmed the news during a press conference, raising anticipation for whether another French film will take home an Oscar after 'Anatomy of a Fall' won Best Screenplay in 2024.
This transition marks a pivotal moment for Disney+, which is looking to enhance its presence in the French market following the termination of its distribution contract with Canal+ in November. As of January 1, 2025, Disney's films, including Marvel and Pixar titles, will no longer be available on Canal+, as the platforms part ways. This move is part of Disney's strategy to regain subscribers and expand its catalog in France.
Expansion of French Content on Disney+
In addition to broadcasting the Oscars, Disney+ is set to bolster its offerings with new French productions. Among these is a comedy series titled 'Surveiller et Punir', starring Jean-Pascal Zadi, which humorously explores the lives of prison guards. This series is expected to debut in 2025, alongside other French productions such as 'Ghosts', co-produced with TF1, and 'Les disparues de la gare', a thriller based on real events.
Disney+ is also planning to introduce popular anime series, including a new adaptation of the cult classic 'Cat's Eye' and the widely acclaimed 'One Piece', further diversifying its content to appeal to younger audiences. These initiatives reflect Disney+'s commitment to enhancing its catalog with local productions while maintaining its global appeal.
Future of Disney+ in France
As Disney+ prepares for its exclusive Oscars broadcast and new French series, the platform is also reportedly in negotiations with the French film industry to improve its position in media chronology. Currently, Disney+ faces restrictions that limit its ability to stream films until 17 months after their theatrical release. The outcome of these negotiations could significantly impact the platform's strategy in France, potentially allowing for a more favorable release schedule.
With the upcoming changes, Disney+ aims to solidify its standing as a major player in the French streaming market, competing against established platforms while catering to local tastes and preferences.
