On Wednesday, late-night host Jimmy Kimmel reached out to his audience, hinting he might need their support again due to new challenges posed by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). He remarked that this situation could impact not just his show but others like ‘The View’ as well.
Kimmel expressed that the FCC’s efforts might complicate how shows interview politicians they disagree with. He noted, “The president kept the war going from 6,000 miles away,” while sharing insights into these developments.
The FCC recently indicated that it would require broadcast networks to adhere to “statutory equal opportunity requirements,” emphasizing the regulations from the Communications Act of 1934 regarding both daytime and late-night talk shows.
The agency pointed out that, per Section 315, when a broadcast station allows a legally qualified candidate for public office to use its facilities, it must extend the same privilege to all other candidates qualified for that position.
“We’re being threatened again by the FCC, and we may need your help again,” Kimmel told the audience, which responded with applause.
This announcement came as Kimmel acknowledged that it was the first anniversary of Donald Trump’s presidency, highlighting that the inauguration was on January 20th.
In a humorous twist, Kimmel invited Trump to appear on his show in light of the anniversary, jokingly stating, “Damn the FCC! Unfortunately, his head couldn’t speak, but we’ve managed to book another part of his body. So, let’s welcome President Trump’s badly bruised right hand!”
Kimmel’s show had faced a temporary suspension in September over remarks about Charlie Kirk. The former FCC Chairman Brendan Kerr labeled Kimmel’s comments as “some of the most egregious conduct” and mentioned potential avenues for action from the FCC.
