More than 100 ABC News veterans urge Disney CEO Bob Iger to stand firm against Trump attacks [View all]

Source: CNN Business

Updated Sep 24, 2025, 4:45 PM ET
PUBLISHED Sep 24, 2025, 4:04 PM ET


A group of 100-plus former ABC News journalists has sent a letter to Disney CEO Bob Iger urging him to make “a concerted effort to defend free speech and press freedom against political intimidation.” The letter, obtained by CNN on Wednesday, soon after it was delivered to Iger, was first drafted when ABC suspended “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” last week.

Given that Disney brought Kimmel’s show back on Tuesday night, the letter begins by commending Iger’s decision, calling it “an important statement that political intimidation should not dictate ABC’s programming.” “Yet, it must be just the first step,” the signees say.

“Disney has both the responsibility and the opportunity to lead by standing firmly against capitulation and in defense of democratic values,” the letter says, arguing that ABC’s $16 million settlement with Trump last December emboldened the president to escalate his attacks.

“The First Amendment is not negotiable,” the letter continues. “ABC’s credibility and Disney’s reputation depend on unwavering leadership in its defense. At this critical moment, you have the chance to set a powerful example by standing up for the principles that define both our democracy and The Walt Disney Company.”

Read more: https://www.cnn.com/2025/09/24/media/disney-bob-iger-abc-trump-free-speech-letter