FCC Initiates Early Review of ABC Broadcast Licenses Amid DEI Investigation
The FCC has ordered an early review of ABC's broadcast licenses, citing an ongoing investigation into the network's diversity, equity, and inclusion practices, while denying any external pressure influenced the decision.
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has initiated an early review of ABC's broadcast licenses, focusing on potential violations related to the network's diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) practices. FCC Chairman Brendan Carr stated that the decision was made internally and was not influenced by external pressures.
The review follows an investigation launched in March 2025 into Disney and ABC's DEI initiatives. Carr emphasized that the FCC's actions are based on this ongoing investigation and are unrelated to any content aired by ABC.
This development comes shortly after President Donald Trump publicly called for ABC to terminate late-night host Jimmy Kimmel over a joke about First Lady Melania Trump. Despite the timing, Carr asserted that the FCC's decision was independent of these events.
The National Association of Broadcasters expressed concern over the FCC's move, describing it as "nearly unprecedented" and cautioning against the agency acting as "the speech police."
ABC and its parent company, Disney, have yet to comment on the FCC's decision. The outcome of the license review could have significant implications for the network's operations and its approach to DEI policies.