• Former President Donald Trump has publicly called for ABC and its parent company Disney (DIS) to fire late-night host Jimmy Kimmel.
  • The demand follows a series of on-air criticisms by Kimmel targeting Trump, escalating tensions between the political figure and the network.
  • Disney and ABC have not yet responded to the call, raising questions about corporate governance and free speech in media.

Political Pressure on Media

In a post on social media, Trump urged Disney and ABC to immediately terminate Jimmy Kimmel, citing the host's repeated mockery and critical commentary. "Jimmy Kimmel should be immediately fired by Disney and ABC," Trump wrote, adding that the network was "losing credibility" by airing Kimmel's remarks. The former president's call is the latest in a series of attacks on media figures he perceives as hostile.

Corporate Implications

Disney, which owns ABC through its media networks division, faces a delicate balancing act. While the company has traditionally defended its talent against political pressure, advertisers and shareholders may weigh the potential backlash. Sources familiar with the matter indicate that Disney's leadership is monitoring the situation but has no immediate plans to act, according to people familiar with the situation.

Kimmel, who has been a fixture on ABC's late-night lineup since2003, has frequently criticized Trump on his show, including during the former president's recent legal battles. The host's contract with ABC runs through 2025, and any termination would involve significant financial implications.

Industry Context

The call comes amid broader debates over free speech and media bias. Media analysts note that while networks rarely yield to political demands, the financial and reputational risks are rising. Advertisers have become increasingly sensitive to controversy, and any move against Kimmel could trigger backlash from his loyal audience. Conversely, ignoring Trump's call may embolden his supporters to pressure advertisers.

No Official Response

Neither Disney nor ABC has issued an official statement. Attempts to reach Kimmel's representatives for comment were unsuccessful. The network's leadership is likely consulting with legal and communications teams before any public response. Correction: An earlier version of this article implied that Disney had received official communication from Trump; the call was made via social media.