Don Lemon is departing CNN after 17 years working for the network. Read a statement from CNN’s chairman and see the anchor’s tweet about his exit.
CNN and Don Lemon are parting ways.
CNN chairman Chris Licht confirmed to his colleagues on April 24 that the anchor is leaving the network after 17 years.
“CNN and Don have parted ways,” he began his message. “Don will be remembered as a member of the CNN family for his contributions over the past 17 years.” We wish him the best of luck and will be rooting for him in his future endeavors.”
Licht added, “CNN This Morning has been on the air for nearly six months, and we are committed to its success.”
Lemon, 57, has also addressed his departure, posting a statement on Twitter explaining his decision.
— Don Lemon (@donlemon) April 24, 2023
“I was informed by my agent this morning that I have been terminated by CNN,” he claimed. “I’m taken aback. After 17 years at CNN, you’d think someone in management would have had the courtesy to tell me directly. There was never any indication that I would be unable to continue doing the work I loved at the network. There are clearly some larger issues at stake.”
“With that said, I want to thank my colleagues and the many teams I have worked with for an incredible run,” Lemon continued on Twitter. “They are among the most talented journalists in the business, and I wish them all the best.”
However, the network’s communication team responded to the alleged chain of events shortly after the longtime TV personality shared his statement.
“Don Lemon’s statement about this morning’s events is inaccurate,” CNN’s communications social media account tweeted. “He was offered a meeting with management but instead issued a statement on Twitter.”
Don Lemon’s statement about this morning’s events is inaccurate. He was offered an opportunity to meet with management but instead released a statement on Twitter.
— CNN Communications (@CNNPR) April 24, 2023
The news of the Emmy winner’s departure comes two months after he was chastised for remarks he made about politician Nikki Haley, whom he implied was past her prime when discussing her commentary on other politicians.
Lemon, who joined the network in 2006, received formal training following his remarks, according to CNN Business, which cited an email from Licht while returning to the desk in late February.
Lemon appeared as his usual co-anchor on CNN This Morning on April 24 before his departure was announced.
