The Federal Communications Commission is preparing to challenge broadcast licenses held by ABC and parent The Walt Disney Company, escalating tensions with President Donald Trump over late-night host Jimmy Kimmel, according to CNN.
Sources said the FCC may move to force early renewal of station licenses, an uncommon step not taken in decades. The action follows criticism from Trump, who has called for Kimmel’s removal after controversial remarks about First Lady Melania Trump.
The FCC is gearing up to launch a formal review of the broadcast licenses granted to Disney’s eight owned ABC stations over complaints about Jimmy Kimmel‘s joke about Melania Trump looking like an "expectant widow."
— Variety (@Variety) April 28, 2026
The FCC, headed by Trump appointee Brendan Carr, “is moving… pic.twitter.com/a88okl1gJa
The report said Disney has continued airing Kimmel’s show, signaling support despite political pressure. Kimmel defended his comments as protected speech under the First Amendment.
Officials indicated the license review may be tied to broader investigations, including diversity practices, rather than solely the controversy.
Critics, including an FCC commissioner, warned the move could be seen as political retaliation. Legal experts expect a prolonged battle over free speech and regulatory authority.
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