FCC Reviews Disney Licenses After Kimmel Trump Joke

Things are heating up between the FCC and Disney! The Federal Communications Commission has just ordered an early review of Disney’s ABC broadcast licenses, and it’s happening much sooner than expected. This move is intensifying a complex debate involving media regulation, free speech, and criticism directed at Donald Trump.

An Unusual Accelerated Review

What’s particularly unusual is that the FCC’s decision targets eight Disney-owned ABC stations whose licenses weren’t even due for renewal until 2028. This accelerated review immediately sparks questions: could federal power be used to put pressure on a major media company? Many are connecting this action directly to the recent backlash over a joke made by ABC’s late-night host, Jimmy Kimmel.

During a recent monologue, Kimmel made a joke about first lady Melania Trump, referencing the age gap between her and Donald Trump by saying she had the glow of “an expectant widow.” This comment came shortly before a gunman opened fire at the White House Correspondents’ Association dinner, leading Melania Trump to publicly call for Disney to fire Kimmel.

Kimmel Responds Amidst Backlash

Kimmel addressed the controversy on his show, firmly rejecting the idea that his joke incited violence. He stated, “It was not, by any stretch of the definition, a call to assassination.” He emphasized his long-standing vocal opposition to gun violence. He also acknowledged the first lady’s stressful experience and suggested a conversation with her husband about dialing back hateful rhetoric.

The situation escalated when White House communications director Steven Cheung publicly attacked Kimmel, calling him a “shit human being” and demanding his immediate termination from ABC. Disney confirmed the FCC’s action, expressing confidence in their compliance and legal standing under the First Amendment.

A History of Criticism

It’s worth noting that Kimmel has previously been critical of FCC Chair Brendan Carr, even referring to him as “Trump’s little ferret” and accusing him of attempting to silence critics. This history adds another layer to the current situation, raising concerns about the motivations behind the accelerated license review.