Disney Investors Seek Records on Jimmy Kimmel Suspension

A coalition of Disney investors has formally requested the company to provide documents related to the suspension of 'Jimmy Kimmel Live!' The request follows concerns that Disney may have yielded to external pressures, potentially compromising free speech principles.

The investors, including representatives from the American Federation of Teachers and Reporters Without Borders, highlighted that Disney's stock experienced notable declines after the suspension. In a letter to Disney, they stated, "The fallout from suspending Jimmy Kimmel Live! sparked criticism as an attack on free speech, triggered boycotts and union support for Mr. Kimmel, and caused Disney's stock to plummet amid fears of brand damage and concerns that Disney was complicit in succumbing to the government overreach and media censorship."

The group is seeking access to board meeting minutes, agendas, and related materials concerning the decision to suspend Kimmel's show. They reference Delaware law, under which Disney is incorporated, which allows shareholders to inspect such records to investigate potential mismanagement or breaches of fiduciary duty.

Disney has not immediately responded to the request for comments.

The suspension occurred on September 17, following Kimmel's remarks about the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. Kimmel criticized the response from Trump supporters, stating, "The MAGA gang [is] desperately trying to characterize this kid who murdered Charlie Kirk as anything other than one of them, and doing everything they can to score political points from it."

Subsequently, Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chair Brendan Carr condemned Kimmel's comments and indicated that the agency might take action against broadcasters airing the show. Carr remarked, "We can do this the easy way or the hard way. These companies can find ways to change conduct to take action on Kimmel, or there's going to be additional work for the FCC ahead."

Following Carr's statement, Nexstar Media Group, a major owner of ABC affiliates, announced it would preempt Kimmel's show, describing his comments as "offensive and insensitive at a critical time in our national political discourse." Nexstar is currently seeking FCC approval for a $6.2 billion merger with Tegna, another significant TV station owner.