The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is reviewing Disney’s broadcast license following some controversy involving Jimmy Kimmel’s monologue, which has drawn criticism from the Trump administration.
Chairman Brendan Carr has announced that this review relates to an investigation into ABC’s diversity and inclusion policies. The backdrop to this action involves tensions between President Trump and Kimmel, with Trump calling for Kimmel’s dismissal.
A Disney spokesperson mentioned that they received an FCC order for an expedited review. The spokesperson emphasized that ABC and its stations comply with all FCC regulations and maintain a strong history of delivering reliable news and public interest programming.
They assured the public that they are prepared to defend their license status through legal means if necessary, highlighting their commitment to serving local communities.
The FCC has not provided any comments regarding the situation.
Stripping broadcasting rights from specific stations is quite challenging for the government. It requires a solid argument showing a consistent pattern of regulatory violations.
If the FCC prevents ABC from renewing its license, Disney might pursue legal action, potentially leading to a protracted and costly court battle.
ABC operates eight of over 200 local stations that deliver national programming in key markets like New York, Los Angeles, and Philadelphia.
President Trump expressed his displeasure on Monday, stating Kimmel deserves to be fired for a joke he made at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner.
Before the dinner, Kimmel had made fun of the event, which typically features comedians roasting the president. In his monologue, he made a remark about First Lady Melania Trump that many found offensive.
Following the dinner, Melania Trump criticized Kimmel, labeling him a “coward.”
In response, Kimmel reiterated his joke in his own Monday night monologue, explaining that his comment about the First Lady was a commentary on the age gap between her and Trump, not an encouragement of violence.
This isn’t the first incident where Kimmel faced backlash. Last September, he was suspended for a week due to negative reactions from affiliates after comments about conservative activist Charlie Kirk’s assassination.
The cancellation of “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” led to a movement to boycott Disney, with some claiming a violation of First Amendment rights.
When Kimmel returned, he refrained from apologizing but insisted he never intended to trivialize the murder of Kirk. Trump’s ire was directed at ABC following Kimmel’s return, expressing disbelief that the network reinstated him.
In earlier comments, Trump suggested there was some inconsistency with how ABC handled Kimmel’s situation, noting that the network had previously indicated his show’s cancellation.
The FCC has recently been looking into a variety of broadcast stations, including NBC, ABC, PBS, and National Public Radio.
