FCC Reviews Disney’s Broadcast License Amid Controversy

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is set to initiate an early review of Disney’s broadcast license as soon as Tuesday, escalating tensions between the media company and the Trump administration. This action comes in light of recent comments made by Jimmy Kimmel that sparked backlash.

Disney’s ABC affiliate now faces the task of demonstrating to FCC Chairman Brendan Carr that it is operating in the public interest. Although the license renewal isn’t due for several more years, the FCC’s decision to expedite the review process follows Kimmel’s controversial comment about a “pregnant widow.” This remark led President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump to call for the suspension of Disney’s license.

A source familiar with the situation indicated that the FCC is likely moving towards this review. While there were suggestions that the commission may decide against it, an FCC official confirmed that the Disney-owned station will indeed be subpoenaed for Carr’s upcoming review sessions.

The FCC has not provided any comments on this matter. The review is expected to assess a broader spectrum of content aired by the Disney-owned station rather than focusing specifically on Kimmel’s remark.

Kimmel has not issued an apology for his comment and instead clarified during Monday’s show that he was not calling for violence against the president, stating that he was simply making a light joke about the age difference between the Trumps. He expressed understanding for the stressful situation First Lady Melania Trump has faced recently and highlighted his long-standing advocacy against gun violence.

His joke, made prior to a recent attack attempt on President Trump, has drawn criticism after the suspect reportedly expressed intentions to target Trump officials at an event.

This story is still developing, and further updates are anticipated.