FCC orders review of ABC licenses after Kimmel joke offends Trump and first lady

In a remarkable move, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has initiated a review of ABC's broadcast licenses, prompted by comments from President Trump and the First Lady regarding a joke made by comedian Jimmy Kimmel. Kimmel's quip, which likened Melania Trump to an 'expectant widow,' has stirred significant controversy, leading to calls for his dismissal from ABC. Despite the fact that no TV station licenses are due for renewal until 2028, the FCC has directed Disney, ABC's parent company, to submit early renewal applications for all its licensed stations by May 28. The FCC emphasized that this action is essential for the proper conduct of its ongoing investigation, allowing them to assess whether the broadcaster has fulfilled its public interest obligations. The impetus behind this unusual review seems to be FCC Chairman Brendan Carr's criticism of Disney's diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, which he argues constitute a form of discrimination. The FCC has been probing Disney’s ABC stations for potential violations of the Communications Act of 1934 and its own regulations, particularly concerning unlawful discrimination. While Disney has attempted to address inquiries from the FCC, the agency has determined that further actions are warranted at this juncture. Notably, the license review appears to have gained urgency following Kimmel's controversial remarks, as reported by NBC News. Sources suggest that the proceeding, while officially centered on DEI practices, was expedited in response to the backlash from Kimmel's joke about the First Lady.