The American telecast on ABC drew in an average of 36.94 million people over its length , which was a 13 % increase from the record lows of the previous year 's ceremony . An estimated , 68.48 million total viewers watched all or part of the awards . The show also drew higher Nielsen ratings compared to the previous ceremony , with 20.88 % of households watching over a 32.44 share . In addition , the program scored a 12.43 rating over a 30.61 share among the 18 – 49 demographic , which was a 13 percent increase
previous year 's ceremony
80th Academy Awards
81st Academy Awards