The Federal Communications Commission has ordered ABC owner Disney to file early license renewal applications for all its TV stations by May 28, following a controversial joke by Jimmy Kimmel calling Melania Trump an "expectant widow." The unusual move comes despite no licenses being up for renewal until 2028, with legal experts calling license revocation nearly impossible.

The probe reportedly was fast-tracked after Kimmel's joke that prompted Trump and the first lady to call for his firing. FCC Chairman Brendan Carr claims the investigation relates to Disney's diversity, equity, and inclusion practices, which he views as unlawful discrimination. Carr previously threatened ABC licenses over similar concerns.

Democratic FCC Commissioner Anna Gomez condemned the action as "retaliation for a joke Donald Trump didn't like," calling it an "unprecedented and politically motivated attempt" that violates the First Amendment. Media advocacy group Free Press labeled the move "an extremely rare escalation." Disney defended its compliance with FCC rules while preparing to respond through legal channels.