The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has ordered Disney's ABC-owned stations to file for early renewal of their broadcast licenses, a move widely seen as retaliation for a controversial joke made by late-night host Jimmy Kimmel. The joke referred to Melania Trump as an "expectant widow" during a monologue.
The FCC's directive, issued on Tuesday, demands that Disney submit license renewal applications for ABC stations ahead of their normal schedule. The agency cited a routine review process, but critics argue it is an unprecedented and politically motivated action aimed at pressuring Disney over Kimmel's content.
Disney has not yet publicly responded to the FCC's order. Legal experts note that challenging the FCC's action could be difficult, as broadcast license renewals are typically subject to agency discretion. The incident underscores the ongoing tension between media companies and regulatory bodies over content perceived as politically charged.