The FCC has ordered Disney’s eight local ABC television stations to immediately file for early renewal of their broadcast licenses, a rare and aggressive step that escalates government pressure on the network while President Trump demands it fire late-night host Jimmy Kimmel.
In a letter sent Tuesday, David J. Brown, chief of the FCC’s video division, directed Disney and ABC to submit the renewal applications for all eight stations within 30 days — by May 28, 2026.“The FCC determines that calling in Disney’s ABC licenses for early renewal, at this time, under the Communications Act’s public interest standard is essential,” Brown wrote.
Disney and ABC said they received the letter and strongly believe their stations have operated in full compliance with FCC rules.
“We are confident that record demonstrates our continued qualifications as licensees under the Communications Act and the First Amendment and are prepared to show that through the appropriate legal channels,” the company said. “Our focus remains, as always, on serving viewers in the local communities where our stations operate.”