OSLO (Reuters) - Walt Disney's new CEO Josh D'Amaro and his team will be responsible for determining the company's response to the ongoing dispute between the White House and ABC late-night host Jimmy Kimmel, according to Disney Chair James Gorman.
Trump Calls for Kimmel's Dismissal
U.S. President Donald Trump stated on Monday that Kimmel should be fired by ABC and its parent company Disney, echoing his wife Melania's criticism of the talk show host. The controversy stems from remarks Kimmel made prior to a shooting at Saturday's White House correspondents' dinner.
Kimmel explained on Monday that his joke about Melania Trump, in which he said she had "a glow like an expectant widow," was a reference to the age difference between the first lady and her husband, and not a "call to assassination."
Disney's Stance
Speaking at a business conference in Oslo, Gorman acknowledged that large companies occasionally face "these kinds of issues" and must resolve them. He emphasized that it is the CEO's role, with guidance from the board, to determine the appropriate course of action.
"It's the job of the CEO with their team to figure out the right answer and they'll be guided by the board," Gorman said. He declined to specify what advice he or the board would provide regarding the Jimmy Kimmel Live! show.
Gorman expressed confidence in D'Amaro, who became CEO last month, stating, "We have a terrific new CEO, Josh D'Amaro, he's world class so I'm sure he'll rise to the occasion and do what the right thing is."
Background
The president, his wife, and other senior government officials were evacuated from Saturday's dinner after a shooting occurred in the lobby of the Washington Hilton. The incident has heightened scrutiny of Kimmel's comments.
The decision now rests with Disney's leadership, as the entertainment giant navigates the intersection of politics, free speech, and corporate responsibility.
