FCC orders Disney to file for early license renewal after Kimmel clash
Summary
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has ordered Disney to apply for early license renewals for its ABC TV stations. This comes as the FCC investigates possible rule violations related to Disney’s diversity and discrimination practices, following a controversy sparked by a joke on Jimmy Kimmel’s show about First Lady Melania Trump.Key Facts
- The FCC ordered Disney to file early renewals for ABC TV station licenses originally set to renew from 2028 to 2031.
- The investigation focuses on possible violations of the Communications Act of 1934 and rules against unlawful discrimination.
- The inquiry relates to Disney’s diversity, equity, and inclusion practices, under review since March 2025.
- Disney owns eight ABC stations, including major ones in New York and Los Angeles.
- The license renewal order followed President Trump and First Lady Melania Trump’s demand that ABC fire Jimmy Kimmel after his controversial joke about the First Lady.
- Kimmel’s joke aired April 23 during a comedy bit about the White House Correspondents’ Dinner.
- The controversy increased after a shooting incident involving a Secret Service agent at the dinner where the Trumps were present.
- Disney said it believes its stations comply with FCC rules and is prepared to defend its licenses legally.
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