FCC Chair Denies White House Influence in Disney Review

FCC Chair Brendan Carr denied White House pressure influenced an early review of Disney's ABC stations' licenses. The review, Carr stated, relates to Disney and ABC's diversity practices, not aired content. Democratic Commissioner Gomez argued the inquiry could lead to prolonged litigation and questioned its motives.

In a swift denial, FCC Chair Brendan Carr refuted claims that the White House influenced the agency's decision to review Disney's ABC stations' licenses earlier than scheduled. The unusual review followed President Trump's call for Jimmy Kimmel's firing, yet Carr emphasized internal processes prompted the action.

Carr asserted that the review, initiated in March 2025, arose from concerns over Disney and ABC's compliance with diversity practices, rather than recent broadcast content. He labeled Disney's recent document submission as inadequate, hinting at plans for subsequent early reviews but remained tight-lipped about potential action against Comcast and NBC.

Democratic FCC Commissioner Anna Gomez criticized the diversity inquiry, suggesting it was a facade for deeper motives. As legal battles loom, Gomez urged media companies to defend First Amendment rights. The controversy partly stems from Kimmel's satirical joke at a White House press event, which was misinterpreted as having more serious implications.