ABC is altering its political coverage to avoid FCC retaliation, with a federal judge weighing whether the agency's early license review is a constitutional violation.
Disney and ABC sued the FCC in August over an order forcing early renewal of eight local station licenses. In a Tuesday hearing, ABC argued this move constitutes unconstitutional censorship, while the FCC claimed it was a procedural step in a separate discrimination investigation. Judge Loren AliKhan expressed skepticism regarding the FCC’s justification, noting the timing and public threats from administration officials. The judge has not yet ruled but ordered additional filings by October 14.
U.S. District Judge Loren AliKhan expressed skepticism during a Tuesday hearing regarding the Federal Communications Commission’s attempt to force an early review of ABC’s eight broadcast licenses. The judge appeared to side with ABC’s argument that the court has jurisdiction to intervene in the FCC’s unprecedented move to accelerate the renewal process years ahead of schedule. AliKhan challenged the FCC’s assertion that the review is merely a procedural step tied to a discovery dispute within a discrimination investigation concerning ABC’s diversity, equity, and inclusion practices. This hearing represents the latest legal confrontation between the Trump administration and Disney-owned ABC, following the agency’s order to pull the licenses for early scrutiny. The judge’s comments suggest she is unconvinced by the FCC’s characterization of the action as a routine administrative matter, instead viewing it as a substantive legal issue that warrants judicial oversight.
Disney President Dana Walden declined to confirm Jimmy Kimmel’s future at ABC, citing the 'challenging' economics of late-night television. Although Kimmel’s ratings have risen, the overall broadcast audience has shrunk, forcing Disney to balance its partnership with the host against significant budget pressures. Kimmel’s current contract expires in May 2027, and while ABC previously denied reports of the show’s end, Disney is currently negotiating to reduce production costs to ensure financial viability.
ESPN has released its 2026-27 ABC television schedule for men’s and women’s college basketball, featuring 13 marquee matchups across the ACC, Big 12, and SEC. The lineup includes 17 ranked teams, with 12 top-25 games based on ESPN’s Way-Too-Early rankings. Notable women’s games include No. 1 South Carolina vs. No. 5 USC and No. 2 UConn vs. No. 10 LSU, while men’s highlights include No. 1 Florida vs. No. 10 Arkansas and North Carolina vs. No. 2 Duke. The schedule spans from November 15 to February 27, 2026.
Jimmy Kimmel has not yet signed a new contract with Disney, with his current deal expiring in May 2027. Dana Walden, President and Chief Creative Officer of the Walt Disney Company, explained at the Bloomberg Screentime event that while Kimmel’s ratings have risen, the overall late-night audience has shrunk significantly. Disney is currently negotiating to reduce production costs to make the show financially viable, balancing business constraints with their long-standing partnership. Kimmel has previously argued that late-night shows do not need to cost $120 million, suggesting that cost-cutting measures could sustain the format. The negotiations remain ongoing as both parties seek a solution that honors their relationship while addressing the changing economics of broadcast television.
Joy Behar missed the October 1 episode of 'The View' after dislocating her shoulder backstage. Her representative confirmed the injury was not a fracture and that she is expected to return mid-next week. Sunny Hostin filled in as moderator, noting Goldberg's absence for a film shoot.
The ABC revival of Scrubs launched its second season with a two-episode premiere focusing on the midlife struggles of J.D., Turk, and Elliot. Showrunner Aseem Batra confirmed that Dr. Cox’s autoimmune condition is stabilizing, while new character Grant creates friction with J.D. The season also features returns from Scott Foley and Neil Flynn, though Ken Jenkins will not appear.
Howard Stern publicly defended Jimmy Kimmel during a Tuesday appearance on 'Jimmy Kimmel Live!', warning ABC that the network would face severe consequences if it fails to renew the late-night host's contract. Stern cited Kimmel's long-standing loyalty, including his consistent attendance at corporate upfronts and charity events, as evidence of his value to the company. The comments come amid ongoing negotiations for a season beyond 2027, following a brief suspension of the show in September 2025 over remarks regarding Charlie Kirk's assassin. While ABC previously dismissed rumors of cancellation as speculative, Stern's intervention highlights the tension surrounding the show's future.
Howard Stern publicly defended Jimmy Kimmel on Tuesday, warning ABC that the network would face severe backlash if it fails to renew the late-night host's contract. Stern cited Kimmel's loyalty, including his attendance at corporate upfronts, while ABC previously dismissed rumors of the show's cancellation as speculative. TheWrap notes the two are currently in negotiations for a season beyond 2027.
Howard Stern appeared on Jimmy Kimmel Live! to publicly support the late-night host's contract negotiations with ABC, warning the network that canceling the show would bring severe consequences. Stern praised Kimmel's loyalty to the network, citing his participation in corporate events, while Kimmel's current deal is set to expire in May 2027.
Singer Taylor Hanson and pro partner Britt Stewart were eliminated from 'Dancing With the Stars' Season 35 following a 'Yacht Rock Night' episode. Their foxtrot to 'What a Fool Believes' scored 18/30, leading to their departure despite high scores from Amber Glenn and Harry Shum Jr.
Taylor Hanson and pro Britt Stewart were eliminated from 'Dancing With the Stars' Season 35 during Week 3's 'Yacht Rock Night,' marking the first surprising exit of the season. While many couples achieved their highest scores yet, Hanson’s foxtrot to 'What a Fool Believes' scored 18/30, leading to his departure. Amber Glenn and Harry Shum Jr. topped the leaderboard with 24/30.
The ABC revival of Scrubs is preparing for its second season with a confirmed absence of original star Ken Jenkins and the addition of Tamera Mowry-Housley. While Jenkins, who played Dr. Kelso, will not return due to age-related concerns, the show is expanding its narrative focus on Dr. Cox and Turk’s mental health. The new season premieres on September 30, featuring a restructured cast that includes promoted regulars and new guest stars.
ABC’s Scrubs revival is restructuring its cast for Season 2, premiering September 30. The show is replacing its primary antagonist with a lower-ranking rival and promoting a new intern to series regular status. While two breakout characters are departing due to scheduling and narrative shifts, the production is introducing new recurring roles to maintain conflict for the lead characters. The series aims to deepen character arcs by giving interns dedicated episodes rather than featuring them in every installment.