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FCC to review Disney broadcast licenses after Jimmy Kimmel joke about Melania Trump
The agency says the move stems from an investigation into Disney’s diversity practices and could trigger a lengthy hearing process, officials 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.
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FCC Targets Disney and ABC Licenses
After Kimmel made a rather inappropriate comment about first lady Melania Trump – followed by another presidential assassination attempt – the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) stepped in and announced it was reviewing ABC’s eight broadcasting licenses – in some cases, years before their renewal is due.
FCC orders ABC stations, including Houston’s KTRK, to re-apply for broadcast license amid political squabble
The Federal Communications Commission ordered KTRK and seven other television stations owned by Disney to file for renewing its license by May 28 — years earlier than anticipated.
·Houston, United States
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Coverage Details
Total News Sources278
Leaning Left67Leaning Right52Center87Last UpdatedBias Distribution42% Center
Bias Distribution
- 42% of the sources are Center
42% Center
L 33%
C 42%
R 25%
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