Are Award Shows Dying? Why They’re Losing Relevance and How They Can Evolve

Once upon a time, award shows were the pinnacle of entertainment. The Oscars, Grammys, Emmys, and Golden Globes were glamorous nights that drew millions of viewers, celebrating the best in film, music, and television. Celebrities walked the red carpet, acceptance speeches made history, and the world tuned in to witness the magic.

But in recent years, ratings have plummeted. The 2023 Oscars, for instance, barely crossed 18 million viewers—far from the 40+ million they used to pull in. The Grammys and Emmys have also seen similar declines. So, why are audiences losing interest in these once-iconic events, and what’s next for entertainment’s biggest nights?

Why Are Award Shows Losing Relevance?

1. The Rise of Streaming and Digital Content

With the explosion of streaming platforms like Netflix, Disney+, and YouTube, entertainment is no longer limited to traditional movies and TV shows. Content creators on TikTok and YouTube are drawing larger audiences than some Hollywood productions. Younger generations, who used to be key viewers of award shows, now consume entertainment on-demand and don’t feel the same connection to traditional media.

2. Viewers Feel Disconnected from Hollywood

Once, award shows were about celebrating art and talent. Now, many viewers feel they have become out-of-touch with everyday people. Some reasons include:

• Elitism in Hollywood – Lavish events with millionaire celebrities can feel disconnected from the struggles of everyday people.
• Lack of Representation – Many audiences feel that award nominations and wins don’t reflect diverse tastes.
• Predictability – The same actors, directors, and studios tend to dominate, making it feel repetitive.

3. The Influence of Social Media

Social media has changed how we engage with entertainment. Instead of waiting for an award show, audiences now get instant reactions, memes, and news updates in real-time. Highlights from the night—whether it’s an emotional speech or an awkward moment—go viral within minutes, making it unnecessary to watch the full event.

4. Controversies and Scandals

In recent years, award shows have been overshadowed by scandals, political speeches, and viral moments (think Will Smith’s infamous slap at the Oscars). While these moments create buzz, they also shift focus away from the celebration of talent and turn these events into tabloid spectacles. Some controversies that have hurt award show credibility include:

• The Golden Globes Scandal – Accusations of corruption and lack of diversity in the Hollywood Foreign Press Association.
• The #OscarsSoWhite Movement – Ongoing criticism about lack of diversity in nominations and winners.
• Snubs and Questionable Wins – Fans often feel the wrong people win, leading to backlash and loss of trust.

5. Changing Entertainment Preferences

Audiences today are more interested in interactive entertainment—gaming, social media, and live-streamed events—rather than sitting through a three-hour-long scripted show. Younger generations care more about authenticity, making polished, traditional award shows feel outdated.

What’s Next for Award Shows?

Despite declining relevance, award shows aren’t dead yet. Here’s how they can evolve to stay relevant:

1. Make the Events More Interactive

Award shows need to engage audiences beyond just watching. Possible changes could include:

• Live social media voting for categories to let audiences have a say.
• Exclusive online content or behind-the-scenes access to make it more engaging.
• Fan-driven awards that recognize viral and streaming content.

2. Recognizing Digital and Streaming Content

With YouTubers, TikTokers, and streaming-exclusive movies gaining massive popularity, award shows need to adapt. Including categories for Best Streaming Film, Best Digital Creator, or Best Social Media Performance could attract younger viewers.

3. Shorter and More Engaging Formats

Instead of long, drawn-out ceremonies, award shows could:

• Cut down run times to 90 minutes or less.
• Use AI and data analytics to highlight what audiences actually want to see.
• Focus more on exciting performances and viral moments rather than lengthy speeches.

4. Expanding Accessibility and Inclusivity

More diverse representation in nominations and winners will help regain audience trust. Award shows should also:

• Allow global participation by recognizing international films, music, and talent.
• Stream on multiple platforms (TikTok, YouTube, Twitch) to reach younger viewers.
• Include fan-favorite awards to reflect real audience preferences.

Conclusion

Award shows are no longer the cultural powerhouses they once were, but that doesn’t mean they have to disappear. By embracing new platforms, recognizing diverse talent, and making shows more interactive, these events can still have a place in modern entertainment.

The future of award shows will depend on how well they adapt to changing audiences. If they evolve with the times, they may regain relevance. If not, they could fade into history—replaced by the very digital creators they once overlooked.