Media publications responded more positively to the show than those in recent years , with many praising the no-host approach . On review aggregator website Rotten Tomatoes , the show holds an approval rating of 70 % based on 40 critics , and summarized , " Strong musical performances , a steady , somewhat sluggish pace , and a few genuinely surprising moments helped the hostless 91st Oscars create an entertainingly efficient -- if not entirely satisfying -- ceremony . " The American telecast drew 29.6 million U.S. viewers , a 12 % increase in viewership over the 2018 ceremony ( which were the lowest-rated Academy Awards to date ) . The show also drew a 7.7 rating for the 18 – 49 demographic
2018 ceremony
90th Academy Awards
91st Academy Awards