Daijiworld Media Network – Washington
Washington, Apr 29: The US Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has directed Disney’s eight owned-and-operated ABC television stations to file their broadcast license renewals ahead of schedule, in an unprecedented move linked to an ongoing probe into the company’s diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) practices.
The licenses were not due for renewal until 2028, but the stations have now been given 30 days to comply with the FCC order.
According to the agency, the decision was taken under the Communications Act’s “public interest” standard. Disney-owned stations affected by the order operate in major markets including New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago, Philadelphia, Houston, Raleigh-Durham and Fresno.
The move has drawn heightened attention as it comes amid controversy surrounding ABC late-night host Jimmy Kimmel, whose recent joke about First Lady Melania Trump sparked criticism from the White House.
A Disney spokesperson said the company remained confident in its compliance record.
“ABC and its stations have a long record of operating in full compliance with FCC rules and serving their local communities with trusted news, emergency information, and public-interest programming,” the spokesperson said, adding the company was prepared to defend its qualifications through legal channels.
The White House has stepped up pressure on ABC over Kimmel’s remarks, with President Donald Trump calling for the comedian’s dismissal.
However, FCC Commissioner Anna M. Gomez, the lone Democratic member on the three-person panel, criticised the early renewal order, calling it “unprecedented” and politically motivated.
“This is a political stunt and it won’t stick. The First Amendment is on their side,” Gomez said.
Media advocacy groups also condemned the move, accusing FCC Chairman Brendan Carr of using regulatory powers to target dissenting voices. Free Press described the action as an unconstitutional attack on the media.
The FCC, however, maintained the order was tied to its long-running review of Disney’s DEI practices and not related to speech or recent political controversy.
The development has triggered debate over press freedom, regulatory authority and political influence over broadcast licensing, with legal challenges expected.