ABC’s parent company, Walt Disney, has come under fire for repeatedly getting embroiled in controversies related to Jimmy Kimmel. An ABC staffer threw shade at the company, stressing how the government shouldn’t have any say on who appears on TV, but the media companies should be careful about what values they reflect through their shows. An entertainment lawyer who represents the company’s talent also joined the terrain of criticism. He is accusing it of losing its identity and American values. This comes amid Donald Trump and Melania asking for Kimmel’s firing over a poorly timed joke.
Disney under fire amid Jimmy Kimmel’s recent controversy
Disney has drawn massive backlash as it gets embroiled in fresh controversy surrounding Kimmel. Two people closely related to the company, a staffer and an entertainment lawyer representing them, have offered their stances on the matter and have strongly criticized them. The network’s staffer told Fox News that the media companies should give careful thought to what they want to reflect to their viewers through their content.
They said, “The ‘Ted Lasso’ model, where people are fundamentally good and flawed and trying their best to build in their communities? Or the ‘House of Cards’ model where everyone is cruel, and you get ahead by not caring about anything except your team and its power.”
In addition, an entertainment lawyer who represents ABC talent said that the company appears to have lost its identity. It was once rooted in presenting wholesome, American values. They further questioned, “What does Kimmel have to do that affects his employer’s image, what would he have to say [to face consequences]?” They claimed to be “embarrassed” by Disney following its backlash over Kimmel’s controversy. They want the company to take a real stand. Plus, reveal whether these are the values they want to give out through their content.
The backlash emerged as Kimmel showcased his own version of the WHCD. It was two days before the actual event, showcasing Trump and Melania. He said that Melania had a “glow of an expectant widow,” which sparked criticism. Both the first lady and the president have called for his firing from the network.
Originally written by Shazmeen Navrange on Mandatory.
