A fresh clash between politics and late-night TV has now pulled regulators into the spotlight. After Donald Trump publicly criticized Jimmy Kimmel, the FCC moved quickly, ordering Disney-owned stations to act sooner than expected. The decision has triggered debate over media freedom, regulation, and whether the timing is more than just a coincidence.
FCC wants Disney to review TV licenses after Donald Trump slammed Jimmy Kimmel
The Federal Communications Commission has directed The Walt Disney Company to fast-track license renewals for its ABC-owned television stations. These renewals were originally not due until at least 2028, but the agency has now given the network 30 days to submit filings under its “public interest” standards (via NBC).
The move comes amid rising tension involving Donald Trump and late-night host Jimmy Kimmel. Trump strongly reacted after Kimmel joked about first lady Melania Trump during a parody segment. Calling it unacceptable, Trump wrote, “Jimmy Kimmel should be immediately fired by Disney and ABC,” labeling the remark as “far beyond the pale.”
Kimmel responded on his show, defending the comment. He said, “It was a very light roast joke,” adding that it was about the age gap between the couple and “not by any stretch… a call to assassination.” He also stressed the importance of rejecting “hateful and violent rhetoric.”
While the timing raised eyebrows, the FCC said the order is tied to a long-running investigation into Disney’s diversity, equity, and inclusion practices, not any specific joke. Still, critics aren’t reportedly convinced. Commissioner Anna M. Gomez called the move “unprecedented” and “a political stunt,” arguing it could violate First Amendment protections.
Disney, which operates stations in major cities like New York and Los Angeles, said it plans to comply and defend its record. A spokesperson stated the company has long followed FCC rules and is positive it meets legal standards.
“We are confident that the record demonstrates our continued qualifications as licensees under the Communications Act and the First Amendment and are prepared to show that through the appropriate legal channels,” the spokesperson shared.
Originally reported by Rishabh Shandilya on Mandatory.
