The U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has directed The Walt Disney Company and its network, American Broadcasting Company (ABC), to submit early renewal applications for their broadcast licences, citing an ongoing investigation into the company’s compliance with federal regulations. 

In a statement issued by the agency’s media bureau on Tuesday, the FCC said it is examining whether ABC’s stations have met obligations under the Communications Act of 1934, including rules prohibiting unlawful discrimination.

According to the commission, requiring an early renewal filing would allow it to continue its investigation and assess whether the broadcaster has fulfilled its “public interest” responsibilities.

ABC and its parent company have been given 30 days to submit the applications, with a deadline set for May 28.

The move comes amid the growing public dispute involving U.S. President Donald Trump and ABC late-night host Jimmy Kimmel.

During his show, Mr Kimmel made a joke referring to Mrs Trump as an “expectant widow,” which he later said was intended as a “light roast.”

Mr Trump on Monday called for Mr Kimmel’s sack in a post on Truth Social, criticising the remarks made on his show about First Lady Melania Trump. 

The president described the comments as “shocking” and accused the comedian of being unreasonable.