Entertainment
Jimmy Kimmel shifts James Talarico interview to YouTube over FCC license fears
The decision to bypass broadcast television stems from federal regulatory pressure on network stations, according to Variety.
The short version
- Jimmy Kimmel announced his interview with Texas Democratic Senate candidate James Talarico will stream on YouTube rather than airing on ABC's network broadcast.[Variety]
- The move was made to shield ABC station licenses from threats by a politically motivated FCC enforcement push.[Variety]
- A similar interview with Talarico was barred by CBS lawyers from airing on Stephen Colbert's show in February.[Variety]
- ABC has filed a lawsuit against the FCC, arguing the agency is conducting an assault on its free-speech rights.[Variety]
Key facts
- Jimmy Kimmel decided not to air his interview with Texas Senate candidate James Talarico on over-the-air television, moving it to YouTube due to FCC license threats.[Variety]
- CBS legal counsel previously blocked an interview with Talarico on The Late Show With Stephen Colbert in February following regulatory scrutiny over the equal time rule.[Variety]
- ABC initiated legal action against the FCC, asserting that the commission has mounted an assault on its free-speech rights.[Variety]
- After Colbert disclosed that his interview was blocked, Talarico raised $2.5 million in 24 hours, and the YouTube segment gained 9.5 million views.[Variety]
What remains uncertain
- Whether the FCC intends to take formal regulatory or enforcement action against ABC affiliates regarding the digital broadcast remains unclear.[Variety]
Sources
Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.