Trump Threatens ABC with Lawsuit Over Re-Aired Episode

In a recent turn of events, Donald Trump has issued a threat to sue ABC for re-airing an episode of "The View" that featured host George Stephanopoulos. This threat follows a previous settlement where ABC agreed to pay 150 million dollars to Trump's presidential foundation and museum, along with 10 million dollars in legal fees, following a defamation lawsuit. The lawsuit was initiated after Stephanopoulos incorrectly stated on the show that Trump had been found civilly liable for rape in the E. Jean Carroll case.

Trump's threat to sue ABC for re-airing the episode is grounded in the previous settlement, where ABC agreed to pay 160 million dollars. Trump's legal team has argued that re-airing the episode would violate the settlement agreement and could result in further legal action. The has stated that suing ABC for re-airing the episode would be more lucrative than the previous settlement.

The defamation lawsuit was filed after Stephanopoulos made the incorrect statement on "The View" in December 2024. The statement was made in reference to the E. Jean Carroll case, where Trump was accused of sexually assaulting Carroll in the 1990s. The case was eventually dismissed, but not before causing significant damage to Trump's reputation.

The settlement agreement between ABC and Trump's legal team included a clause that prohibited ABC from re-airing the episode in question. Trump's legal team has argued that re-airing the episode would be a violation of this clause and could result in further legal action. The has stated that suing ABC for re-airing the episode would be more lucrative than the previous settlement.

This threat to sue ABC for re-airing the episode comes as Trump continues to face legal challenges related to his time in office. The has been involved in numerous lawsuits and investigations, including those related to his business dealings and his role in the January 6th attack on the U.S. Capitol. Trump's legal team has argued that the threat to sue ABC is part of a broader strategy to hold those who have wronged him accountable.

In a separate but related development, ABC decided to reinstate the late-night talk show "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" after a six-day suspension. The show was initially suspended due to controversial comments made by host Jimmy Kimmel regarding the fatal shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. Kimmel's comments sparked widespread criticism and led to the show's temporary suspension.

In response to the reinstatement, Trump took to Truth Social to express his disapproval. He wrote, "I can't believe ABC fake news gave Jimmy Kimmel his job back. ABC told the White House his show was canceled!" Trump questioned the network's decision, asking why they would want to bring back a host who he described as "a terrible performer, not funny, and 99% pro-Democrat garbage."

Trump also hinted at potential legal action, stating, "I think we are going to explore this with ABC. Let's see how we do. Last time I sued them, they gave me 160 million dollars. This sounds more lucrative." The 160 million dollars mentioned by Trump refers to the previous settlement with ABC over the defamation lawsuit involving Stephanopoulos.

ABC's decision to reinstate Kimmel came after a "thoughtful conversation" with the host. In his first appearance back on the show, Kimmel addressed the controversy, stating, "I never intended to diminish the murder of a young person. I don't think there's anything funny about that." He also clarified that he did not intend to blame any specific organization for the actions of the individual involved.

This latest development highlights the ongoing tensions between Trump and the media, as well as the broader political and legal challenges facing the . The situation underscores the complex interplay between free speech, media responsibility, and legal accountability in the current political climate.