📰 FCC Orders Review of ABC’s Broadcast Licenses Amid Trump-Kimmel Feud
April 29, 2026 — The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has formally ordered a review of broadcast licenses held by Disney-owned American Broadcasting Company (ABC), requiring its affiliated TV stations to file early license renewal applications. The move is widely seen as the latest escalation in the ongoing dispute between President Trump and “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” host Jimmy Kimmel.
According to Axios, the FCC’s action directly targets the licenses of ABC’s local television stations, requiring them to submit renewal filings earlier than originally scheduled. NBC News confirmed that Disney-owned stations have received formal notification from the FCC.
The New York Times previously reported that the FCC’s decision to review ABC’s licenses is closely tied to the long-running friction between Trump and Kimmel. The late-night host has repeatedly mocked and criticized Trump’s policies and statements on his show, drawing sharp rebukes from the president. An exclusive report from Semafor indicated that FCC insiders believe the decision is politically motivated and could set a precedent for using regulatory power to suppress media criticism.
Kimmel responded to the FCC news with further mockery on his show. The Wall Street Journal reported that he satirized the FCC’s review action during the broadcast, stating it would not affect the program’s normal operations or editorial stance. The Los Angeles Times noted that the incident has sparked a broader debate about press freedom and regulatory independence.
Several media law experts have warned that if the FCC intervenes in broadcast license approvals based on political motivations, it could have far-reaching implications for American press freedom and First Amendment rights. They are calling on the FCC to maintain its independence and avoid politicizing regulatory tools.
Disney, ABC’s parent company, has not yet issued an official statement on the matter, but analysts expect the company to pursue legal avenues to defend its broadcasting interests. The incident is seen as the latest sign of strained relations between the media and the U.S. government.
Source: Axios | The New York Times | Semafor