Don Lemon is no stranger to making headlines. The former CNN anchor spent nearly two decades as one of the most recognisable faces on the network. From covering major global events to hosting his own primetime show, Lemon built a reputation for being outspoken. But in 2023, after a 17-year tenure, he was fired from CNN in a move that left both him and his audience stunned.
Discover our latest podcast
Since then, Lemon has embarked on an unconventional journey, swapping the newsroom for the streets, and the studio for social media. From hosting his own independent show to inviting people to his birthday via street fliers, Lemon’s post-CNN life is anything but ordinary.
Don Lemon’s viral birthday invite and new career path
Since leaving CNN, Don Lemon has embraced an entirely new media persona. Recently, he went viral for an unusual stunt—posting fliers across New York City inviting strangers to his birthday party. The ‘party’ turned out to be a live-streamed event rather than a physical gathering, but that didn’t stop social media users from reacting with both amusement and concern.
In a video posted on TikTok, Lemon was seen taping fliers to street signs, which read:
You are cordially invited to my birthday! This Sunday 5pm EST.
The flier also featured an illustration of balloons holding a microphone with the initials 'DL'.
The internet had mixed reactions—while some found the move quirky and entertaining, others questioned if he was 'spiralling' post-CNN.
Another recent viral moment featured Lemon running up to subway cars in the Times Square-42nd Street station, knocking on the windows, and showing passengers random photos on his phone. According to Daily Mail, some of the images included a picture of Donkey from Shrek and a blue-hued selfie of himself.
The stunt left some social media users entertained, while others found it bizarre. One user wrote:
Is that what Don Lemon does in his spare time now?
While another said:
I like this fun side of don lemon! The one too good for CNN.
In addition to his viral antics, Lemon has been actively rebuilding his career. He has turned to independent journalism, launching The Don Lemon Show on YouTube and X. His new content is far from traditional broadcast news, as he takes a more candid and informal approach, often engaging directly with viewers in live streams.
Lemon has also taken his journalism to the streets, quite literally. He now interviews people directly in public spaces, often filming spontaneous interactions with pedestrians to discuss trending topics and social issues.
But what lead to such a drastic shift in his career and why did he have to leave CNN?
Why was Don Lemon fired from CNN?
Lemon’s departure from CNN came after months of controversy. The network officially announced it had 'parted ways' with him, but the reasons behind the decision were layered. His on-air remarks about Republican politician Nikki Haley were widely criticised as sexist, leading to significant backlash.
In a February 2023 segment, Lemon claimed that Haley, who was 51 at the time, was 'not in her prime'. When his co-hosts pushed back, he doubled down, saying:
When a woman is considered to be in her prime - in her 20s, 30s and maybe her 40s. I'm just saying what the facts are - Google it
His comments sparked outrage, including a pointed response from actress Michelle Yeoh at the Oscars: 'Ladies, don’t let anybody tell you you’re ever past your prime.
Though Lemon apologised and underwent 'mandatory training', his reputation had taken a hit. His firing also followed a damning Variety report detailing alleged instances of misogynistic behaviour towards colleagues.
The allegations included making inappropriate comments, mocking co-workers, and even sending threatening texts. While Lemon denied these claims, the controversy surrounding him appeared to play a role in CNN’s decision to let him go.
In his post-firing statement, Lemon expressed shock:
After 17 years at CNN I would have thought someone in management would have had the decency to tell me directly.
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 larger issues at play.
CNN, however, disputed his account, stating he had been offered a chance to meet with executives before his dismissal.
The settlement: What did Don Lemon get from CNN?
Following his firing, Lemon reportedly took legal action against CNN, challenging the terms of his contract, which was supposed to run until 2026. After months of negotiations, the two parties reached a settlement in early 2024. While the details remain undisclosed, reports alleged that CNN agreed to pay Lemon the full remaining salary on his contract—an estimated $24.5 million.
As per Forbes former CNN executive Allison Gollust confirmed that a settlement had been reached but declined to disclose specific details.
His legal battle was handled by high-profile entertainment lawyer Bryan Freedman, who also represented other fired TV hosts. Despite the hefty payout, Lemon did not return to mainstream media but instead doubled down on his independent ventures. He has also been openly critical of CNN’s leadership, suggesting his firing was politically motivated.
Read more:
Steve Jobs left himself a message he had made a year before he died, here's what it said
Tiger Woods reveals he had surgery after 'sharp pain in left Achilles'
Sources used:
TV Insider: Don Lemon biography
BBC: Don Lemon fired from CNN after controversial remarks
Forbes: CNN settles with Don Lemon over firing dispute
Daily Mail: Don Lemon’s bizarre birthday stunt and new media career
