Disney Sues FCC, Alleges First Amendment Violation in ABC License Review

Disney has initiated legal action against the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), contending that the agency's recent actions against ABC constitute a breach of the network's First Amendment rights. The lawsuit, filed on Tuesday, challenges the FCC's decision to launch an early review of eight ABC local broadcast licenses.

The review, which began in April, targets licenses that are not scheduled to expire for some time. ABC has previously characterized the FCC's move as a direct attempt to suppress constitutionally protected speech, a stance that extends to all media outlets.

FCC Chairman Brendan Carr has defended the agency's position, asserting that broadcasters are obligated to serve the public interest. He has stated that the FCC's goal is to restore this standard and expressed a desire for a news media that is both trusted and respected.

The dispute traces back to a joke made by late-night host Jimmy Kimmel, which drew the ire of President Donald Trump. Trump has repeatedly called for Kimmel's dismissal. The FCC's early license review was initiated amid this conflict, with the agency citing diversity, equity, and inclusion practices at the company as a reason for its action.

Requests for comment from the FCC and ABC have been made but not yet answered.