Disney and ABC have accused the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) of misusing the license renewal process as a way to sidestep judicial review and pressure the network. This complaint was filed on Monday.
The conflict traces back to August when Disney initiated a lawsuit against the FCC, alleging a retaliatory effort aimed at ABC. This followed the FCC’s move earlier in the year that required eight ABC-owned stations to renew their licenses prematurely. The FCC claims that these stations must prove they operate in the public interest amid investigations focusing on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) practices.
In a recent legal filing, Disney pointed out that the FCC could have pursued various other methods to look into their DEI practices, methods that wouldn’t have involved the early license renewals. This, they argue, seems like an attempt to escape judicial oversight.
The filing emphasized that the tools available to the FCC are not just theoretical—they’ve been implemented for years. Yet, the FCC opted for the unusual route of demanding early renewals for all eight stations simultaneously. Disney claims that this was intended to apply intense pressure on the company, which the administration allegedly wished to silence, thereby avoiding court scrutiny.
In court last week, the FCC was asked to outline alternative investigation methods it could have considered. They acknowledged that some suggested procedures would require enforcement through federal courts.
The filing also stated that the FCC’s characterization of judicial review as an obstacle further reinforces Disney’s claim that evading legal review is a key part of this retaliatory strategy.
In response, FCC spokesperson Adam Jackman dismissed Disney’s recent claims, asserting it merely reflects a misguided attempt to obstruct the commission’s oversight. According to him, Disney is seeking to prevent the FCC from even evaluating whether they are meeting their broadcasting obligations, which isn’t permitted by law. He noted that the FCC will continue to ensure that broadcasters comply with regulatory mandates.
Disney has consistently criticized the FCC’s investigations, framing them as retaliation against the network due to certain programs and hosts that express critical views of former President Donald Trump, including late-night host Jimmy Kimmel.
Alongside the license renewal inquiries, the FCC is also looking into ABC’s “The View” due to its requirement that opposing political candidates receive equal airtime. Disney maintains that “The View” qualifies as a bona fide news program and is thus exempt from such regulations.
