View gallery
Image Credit: Getty Images for RFK Ripple Of H
Don Lemon is a very familiar personality in the realm of journalism. Being a previous anchor on CNN for close to a decade, many watchers are quite knowledgeable of Don and his commentary on politics. After nearly ten years of presenting on television (and further contributing), the news anchor declared that his contract had been terminated by the news source via a tweet during April of 2023.
Don utilized his Twitter to put out his statement, asserting that he was caught off-guard by the parting of ways. “This morning, my agent informed me that CNN is terminating my agreement. I am left speechless,” he communicated. “After serving CNN for a duration of 17 years, it would have been reasonable to believe that someone in a position of power would extend the respect of informing me in person. I was never provided with even the slightest indication that my contributions at the network were in jeopardy. It’s evident that some larger dilemmas are at play.”
CNN also issued a declaration, verifying that they had broken ties with the news anchor; later, however, they released a succeeding statement mentioning his assertions were “false.” As per the company, “He received an invite for a dialogue with management; however, instead, he conveyed his perspective on Twitter.”
Now, almost three years later, Don was apprehended by law enforcement officials concerning a situation that took place at a church situated in Minnesota during January of 2026, while he was reporting live.
Uncover all you have to know regarding Don right here.
View this post on Instagram
1. Don Started Contributing to CNN Back in 2006
Significantly before he was a foundation on the news stage, Don was still making contributions on a frequent basis to the news source, dating back to 2006. He had spent a considerable amount of time at CNN, prior to being afforded an opportunity to head his own projects in prime time during the year 2014. In prime time, he started presenting both The Eleventh Hour and The Don Lemon Show. Additionally, he became a permanent personality of CNN Tonight and CNN This Morning. On top of this, he took the role of presenting a multitude of exclusive programs for the network, inclusive of CNN’s New Year’s Eve coverage.
2. Don Had Been Hit With Accusations of Sexism in the Months Ahead of His Termination
During the months prior to Don’s dismissal, spectators had publicly accused him of exhibiting misogynistic conduct. During the month of February, he came under fire for a statement he had made in connection with a discussion regarding Republican candidate Nikki Haley, in which he commented that she had surpassed her “peak.” Subsequent to a week-long break, he put out a statement expressing remorse for his comment through Twitter before coming back. “I am grateful for being back on @CNNThisMorning today. With regard to my network, my colleagues, and our extraordinary audience – I offer my apologies. I’ve paid attention, I’m acquiring knowledge of you, and I’m dedicated to developing. See you soon,” he mentioned.
After making his return to the program, several past colleagues accused him of displaying both sexist behavior and other unsuitable office actions in a report by Variety, which was published during the early part of April. Numerous sources in the report made allegations that he had conducted himself in a disrespectful way towards fellow workers, involving Nancy Grace, Kyra Phillips, and Soledad O’Brien.
3. He Is Committed in Matrimony to His Husband, Tim
Don has been an item with real estate professional and “Real Talk” podcast figure Tim Malone ever since 2017. Often, the two broadcast snapshots of themselves via social media. As well, the pair serves as guardians to three adorable puppies. Back during the year 2019, the prior CNN anchor revealed that Tim proposed to him in an Instagram share. Tim, in a cordial gesture, gave a part to the dogs in the proposal that included name labels that expressed, “Daddy, will you marry Papa?” In the caption, Don spoke highly of his soon-to-be spouse. “He gifted me something on his birthday. How can I say no to that?” he composed.
The married couple went on to wed during the month of April in 2024.
4. He Is the Creator of Two Books
Outside of his presence on TV, Don has also thrived as an author. As of now, he has written two books. He launched his biography Transparent in 2011. In the book, the news anchor additionally shared his status as an openly gay individual, stating that he had revealed the truth to close confidants and some workmates. In the year 2021, he launched his next book This Is Fire: What I Say To My Friends About Racism, where he talked of racism found within America and just how the problem might potentially be combatted.
5. He Garnered Three Regional Emmy Awards
While Don is primarily associated with CNN, the reality of the situation is that he first gained traction within the local news sector. For the Chicago-centered news channel WMAQ, which was NBC’s property, he was both an on-screen reporter and co-anchor. From 2003 onward, he began working with the network, and while being on the air, he acquired a total of three regional Emmy Awards.