FCC orders review of ABC licenses after Kimmel joke about first lady
Original: FCC orders review of ABC licenses after Kimmel joke offends U.S President and first lady | Kimmel joke calling Melania an “expectant widow” followed quickly by FCC order.
Why This Matters
FCC targeting broadcast licenses over comedy content raises press freedom concerns.
The FCC ordered Disney to file early license renewal applications for all ABC TV stations by May 28, following President Trump's criticism of Jimmy Kimmel's joke calling Melania an 'expectant widow' during a White House Correspondents' Dinner skit.
The Federal Communications Commission ordered ABC owner Disney to submit early license renewal applications for all eight TV stations by May 28, despite licenses not being due for renewal until 2028-2031. The action follows President Trump and first lady's calls for ABC to fire Jimmy Kimmel over his joke calling Melania an 'expectant widow' during a pretend White House roast. FCC Chairman Brendan Carr cited ongoing investigation into Disney's diversity, equity, and inclusion practices as potential discrimination under the Communications Act. NBC News reported the proceeding was 'fast-tracked' after Kimmel's joke, which also suggested Trump and Melania were introduced by Jeffrey Epstein. ABC operates stations in major markets including New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, and Philadelphia.