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FCC Leader Warns ABC and Disney Over Jimmy Kimmel's Comments Regarding Charlie Kirk, Possibly Risking Sanctions

"Carr issued a warning: companies can either modify their behavior and address the issue with Kimmel straightforwardly, or face further regulatory action from the FCC."

FCC Chair issues threats towards ABC and Disney due to Jimmy Kimmel's comments concerning Charlie...
FCC Chair issues threats towards ABC and Disney due to Jimmy Kimmel's comments concerning Charlie Kirk

FCC Leader Warns ABC and Disney Over Jimmy Kimmel's Comments Regarding Charlie Kirk, Possibly Risking Sanctions

In a recent development, Brendan Carr, the current chairman of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), has threatened action against Disney and ABC News due to comments made by late-night talk show host Jimmy Kimmel on his ABC show. During a discussion with right-wing podcaster Benny Johnson, Carr expressed his disapproval of Kimmel's monologue about Charlie Kirk's suspected killer. He described Kimmel's remarks as the 'sickest conduct possible.'

Carr's threats involve potential revocation of ABC affiliate licenses, a move designed to force Disney to punish Kimmel for his comments. This is not the first time Carr has gone after ABC News in recent months. In July, he criticised co-host Joy Behar's scathing criticism of President Trump, stating that 'The View' was 'now in the crosshairs of this administration.'

Jimmy Kimmel has been a frequent target of President Trump's criticism. In the past, Trump suggested that Kimmel might be less talented than Stephen Colbert. However, Colbert's late-night talk show on CBS was recently cancelled, a move that Carr publicly celebrated.

Carr's criticism of Kimmel extends beyond talent. He described Kimmel as 'talentless' and displayed his disapproval of Kimmel's comments as displaying 'some sort of desperate irrelevance.'

Disney and ABC News have not responded to a request for comment regarding Carr's criticism of Kimmel. Carr reiterated that broadcasters, including ABC, have an obligation to operate in the public interest.

This is not the first time Carr has used his position to exert pressure on broadcasters. In July, he criticised ABC News over Behar's criticism of President Trump. He also publicly celebrated the cancellation of Stephen Colbert's late-night talk show.

The FCC chairman's threats come amid political pressure linked to Kimmel's comments on the Charlie Kirk attack. The Centre for American Rights has also complained about Kimmel's remarks.

As the Trump-led chairman of the FCC, Carr's threats against Disney and ABC News before the show was suspended could have significant implications for the future of late-night television.

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