US EditionFCC to review Disney broadcast licenses after Jimmy Kimmel joke about Melania Trump
The move would force Disney’s ABC stations into a rare regulatory process that could take months or years, critics said.
- On Tuesday, the Federal Communications Commission ordered Disney to file early renewal applications for its eight ABC-owned broadcast stations within 30 days, forcing an accelerated review of licenses not scheduled for renewal until 2028.
- Though the FCC cites an ongoing probe into Disney's diversity, equity, and inclusion practices, critics argue the timing reflects President Donald Trump's demand Monday that ABC fire host Jimmy Kimmel over an 'expectant widow' joke.
- Democratic FCC Commissioner Anna Gomez called the order 'unprecedented, unlawful, and going nowhere,' stating it is a 'political stunt.' Legal experts note the FCC has not revoked a broadcast license in more than 40 years.
- Disney likely faces protracted legal battles as analysts suggest the company will cite First Amendment protections against content-based regulatory retaliation, imposing substantial defense costs while creating precedent for government authority over broadcast media.
- The conflict signals an intensifying pressure campaign by the administration against major media outlets; should proceedings advance, the case may reshape regulatory boundaries and press-freedom standards for U.S. broadcasters in coming years.
62 Articles
62 Articles
The U.S. Media Inspectorate wants to review ABC's licenses – several years before the original date. The reason is apparently a renewed dispute between Donald Trump and Jimmy Kimmel.
FCC Eyes Disney ABC Broadcast Licenses After Jimmy Kimmel Controversy Draws White House Attention
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is moving toward a potential review of broadcast licenses tied to The Walt Disney Company, placing the ABC network under renewed scrutiny at a moment of intense political pressure. According to a new report, the FCC is considering an early license review, a rarely used process that could force Disney to defend its eligibility to operate ABC stations across the country. While officials have not confirme…
US President Trump criticized moderator Jimmy Kimmel for commenting on First Lady Melania Trump. US media oversight ordered a review of ABC broadcasting licenses.
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