When Don Lemon walked away from CNN after a dramatic exit, the world couldn’t help but ask: What’s next for the seasoned journalist? After 17 years with the network, Lemon’s firing left many wondering where this chapter of his life might lead. But Don, ever the resilient professional, isn’t letting it get to him. Despite his initial shock, he’s embracing the change with a positive outlook, proving that even when the road takes an unexpected turn, you can still find the silver lining.
If you’re curious about what’s on Don’s plate now, keep reading. We’re diving deep into his current plans, his mindset after the firing, and what fans can expect from the man who once anchored Don Lemon Tonight.
Don Lemon Reflects on His Time at CNN and Looks Ahead
Just days after his termination, Don Lemon appeared at New York City’s prestigious Time 100 gala in April 2023, walking the red carpet with a calm demeanor. When asked about his feelings toward CNN, he shared a reassuring message that resonated with many. “I’m not an angry person, I’m not mad,” he told Page Six, reflecting on the situation just three days after the news broke. “I’m a very resilient person.”
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Don’s attitude seems to reflect a broader perspective on life. He explained that he’s in no rush to jump into the next big career move. “I’ve had a very full life with lots of twists and turns,” he added. “I come from strong, sturdy stock in Louisiana, and I’m lucky enough to be in a position where I don’t have to worry about basic needs like having a place to live or a home.”
Don’s emotions, he revealed, are moving in a positive direction. “There’s a reason this happened, and we’ll see what the future holds,” he said. “But right now, I’m here to celebrate the people from the Time 100 and not focus on me or what’s happened to me.”
In a separate interview with Time that evening, Don joked about his summer plans, which involve some well-deserved downtime. “I’m going to have the summer of a 12-year-old,” he said with a laugh, adding that he plans to relax on the beach with fiancé Tim Malone.
Don Lemon on His Departure from CNN: The Full Story
On April 24, 2023, Don Lemon broke the news of his termination via Twitter. “I was informed this morning by my agent that I have been terminated by CNN,” he tweeted. “I am stunned. After 17 years at CNN, I would have thought that someone in management would have had the decency to tell me directly.”
Don continued, “At no time was I ever given any indication that I would not be able to continue to do the work I have loved at the network. It is clear that there are some larger issues at play. With that said, I want to thank my colleagues and the many teams I have worked with for an incredible run. They are the most talented journalists in the business, and I wish them all the best.”
However, CNN quickly responded to Don’s claims, stating that his version of events wasn’t entirely accurate. “Don Lemon’s statement about this morning’s events is inaccurate,” the network explained in a statement via Twitter. “He was offered an opportunity to meet with management but instead released a statement on Twitter.”
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The Mystery Behind Don Lemon’s Firing
Neither Don Lemon nor CNN has publicly disclosed the exact reasons behind his sudden departure. However, former CEO Chris Licht released a statement wishing him well. “Don will forever be a part of the CNN family, and we thank him for his contributions over the past 17 years,” Chris said. “We wish him well and will be cheering him on in his future endeavors.”
The abrupt termination came just two months after Don was temporarily removed from air following controversial comments about former United Nations ambassador Nikki Haley. In February 2023, Don remarked that she “is not in her prime” and suggested that “a woman is considered to be in her prime in her 20s, 30s and maybe her 40s.”
After the backlash, Don quickly apologized. “I’m sorry that I said it,” he admitted, according to CNN. “And I certainly see why people found it completely misguided. When I make a mistake, I own it. And I own this one as well.”
