FCC Pressure Mounts as Kimmel Fallout Spills Over to Disney
A controversy surrounding a late-night monologue is now rippling far beyond television, drawing scrutiny from federal regulators and the White House alike. The Federal Communications Commission is weighing whether to…
A controversy surrounding a late-night monologue is now rippling far beyond television, drawing scrutiny from federal regulators and the White House alike.
The Federal Communications Commission is weighing whether to take a closer look at broadcast licenses tied to The Walt Disney Company, the parent company of ABC, amid backlash tied to comments made on Jimmy Kimmel Live!.
According to an anonymous source who spoke to Semafor, the potential review, led by FCC Chairman Brendan Carr, could involve what is known as an early license review, though a final decision has not been made.
Carr has indicated that the agency is already examining multiple broadcasters, including ABC, NBC, PBS, and National Public Radio, as part of broader oversight efforts.
The scrutiny follows remarks made by host Jimmy Kimmel in a monologue that aired shortly before a shooting disrupted the White House Correspondents’ Dinner. During that segment, Kimmel mocked the annual event and commented on First Lady Melania Trump.
“Our first lady, Melania, is here. Look at Melania, so beautiful. Mrs. Trump, you have a glow like an expectant widow,” Kimmel said.