Disney shareholders demand company turn over documents related to Jimmy Kimmel suspension: report

Core Viewpoint - Disney shareholders are threatening legal action if the company does not provide documents related to the suspension of late-night host Jimmy Kimmel, which they believe may have been influenced by political pressure [1][2][4]. Group 1: Shareholder Actions - Lawyers representing various shareholder groups have requested Disney to release board records concerning Kimmel's suspension, alleging potential breaches of fiduciary duty by the company's executives [2][4]. - The shareholders claim to have a "credible basis" to suspect that the Board and executives prioritized political considerations over the company's best interests [4][7]. - The letter from shareholders emphasizes the need for transparency regarding the initial decision to suspend Kimmel, especially in light of ongoing threats to free speech [3][11]. Group 2: Financial Impact - Following Kimmel's suspension, Disney's market value decreased by over $4 billion, as criticism mounted from Hollywood and some talent threatened to sever ties with the company [4][10]. - Shareholders are seeking access to financial analyses that estimate the fallout from Kimmel's suspension, indicating concerns over the financial implications of the decision [7]. Group 3: Legal and Regulatory Context - The letter to Disney cites Delaware law, which allows shareholders to demand access to "books and records" to investigate potential corporate wrongdoing [8]. - If Disney does not comply with the request within five business days, the shareholders' legal team has indicated they will pursue litigation to obtain the records [11]. - The shareholder groups are also interested in communications between Disney executives and federal officials or political organizations, which may provide insight into the decision-making process [7][12]. Group 4: Context of Kimmel's Suspension - Kimmel was suspended after making comments linking a shooting suspect to the MAGA movement, which led to backlash from Trump supporters and prompted affiliate owners to pull his show [14][15]. - The controversy surrounding Kimmel's comments has raised alarms within Disney, particularly following remarks from FCC Chair Brendan Carr suggesting regulatory involvement [16].