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FCC Chair Blasts Hollywood Talk Shows for Disinformation

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  Published in Politics and Government on Wednesday, February 18th 2026 at 14:44 GMT by The Hollywood Reporter
      Locales: California, District of Columbia, UNITED STATES

Washington D.C. - February 18th, 2026 - Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chair Brendan Carr has significantly amplified his criticism of Hollywood talk shows, accusing them of actively contributing to the spread of disinformation regarding the FCC's authority and function. What began as a pointed interview has evolved into a broader campaign, with Carr now publicly demanding greater accountability from entertainment programs and outlining potential avenues for addressing the issue.

In a series of statements released this week, Carr doubled down on his initial concerns, stating that inaccurate portrayals of the FCC aren't merely harmless entertainment; they erode public trust in the commission and foster confusion about its limited, yet critical, role in overseeing communications infrastructure and access. He argues that these misrepresentations are particularly dangerous in the current media landscape, where discerning fact from fiction is increasingly challenging for the average citizen.

"The frequency with which we see these shows presenting a distorted view of the FCC is alarming," Carr said during a press conference earlier today. "It's not about controlling narratives; it's about accurately reflecting our legal mandate. When shows depict us as having sweeping powers to censor or regulate online content - powers we simply do not possess - it breeds distrust and ultimately hinders our ability to serve the public."

Carr's office has compiled a detailed report, shared with several congressional committees, outlining numerous instances where talk shows have incorrectly characterized the FCC's capabilities. These examples range from implying the FCC can unilaterally control social media algorithms to suggesting the commission has the authority to fine individuals for online speech. The report meticulously contrasts these fictional portrayals with the actual legal framework governing the FCC, highlighting the specific statutes that define its jurisdiction.

The controversy extends beyond simple misstatements. Carr suggests a pattern of deliberate exaggeration for dramatic effect. "While we understand the need for entertainment," Carr explained, "there's a line between creative license and actively misleading the public about how their government functions. It's irresponsible and frankly, damaging."

The FCC Chair's comments have ignited a heated debate about the responsibilities of the entertainment industry. Defenders of the talk show format argue that these programs are designed for entertainment, not journalistic accuracy, and that viewers should be able to differentiate between fiction and reality. They point out that the shows often employ satire and hyperbole, which can inevitably lead to exaggerations.

However, critics contend that this argument is insufficient. With the pervasive influence of television and the ease with which misinformation spreads online, they assert that media outlets--including talk shows--have a moral and civic duty to present a reasonably accurate portrayal of public institutions. Furthermore, some legal scholars suggest that consistently disseminating false information about a government agency could potentially lead to legal repercussions, even if the intent isn't malicious.

Several prominent media analysts have weighed in on the debate. Dr. Eleanor Vance, a communications professor at Georgetown University, notes that the blurring lines between news and entertainment contribute to the problem. "Viewers often passively absorb information, regardless of its source or veracity. When a trusted talk show host presents a false claim about the FCC, it can carry significant weight, even if it's later debunked."

Looking ahead, Carr suggests the FCC is exploring several options to address the issue. These include collaborating with industry groups to promote media literacy, issuing public service announcements clarifying the FCC's role, and potentially working with Congress to explore legislative solutions. He stopped short of suggesting direct regulation of entertainment content, emphasizing that such a move would raise First Amendment concerns. However, he made it clear that the FCC is committed to protecting the integrity of its regulatory authority and ensuring the public has access to accurate information.