Shocking Revelation: Don Lemon Claims CNN Forced Him Out for Defying 'Liars and Bigots'

Content: Two months after his departure from CNN, Don Lemon hinted that the reason for his exit was his lack of interest in featuring individuals he deemed dishonest on his program. In his first interview since leaving the network, the 57-year-old journalist stated that, in addition to his role as a journalist, he felt a responsibility as an American to uphold the truth and the principles of the Constitution. Lemon emphasized that, while the Constitution aims for a "more perfect union," acknowledging imperfections is essential in order to truly uphold its promises. He urged others to join him in defending what is right and advocating for the truth.

Lemon indirectly referenced his previous employer when speaking with ABC's Memphis affiliate, suggesting that he and his superiors had differing opinions on the network's choice of featured individuals.

"I refuse to provide a platform for dishonest individuals, prejudiced individuals, those involved in insurrection, and those who deny the election results, alongside individuals who speak the truth, fight for justice, and uphold the Constitution," Lemon elaborated. "It would be a betrayal of my journalistic responsibilities to engage in such practices. This principle has led me to where I am today and will continue to guide me in the future."

Content: He expressed uncertainty about his future career path but took pride in staying true to his personal beliefs. He emphasized the importance of upholding the Constitution and the freedoms it guarantees, such as freedom of speech, expression, and the press. Lemon asserted that he remains authentic and honest in his actions.

Lemon received news of his departure from CNN on April 24. In a tweet, he disclosed that his agent was the one who informed him about the decision, rather than someone from the network directly.

"I am shocked. After spending 17 years at CNN, I had expected management to have the decency to inform me directly. I was never given any indication that I would no longer be able to continue the work I have enjoyed at the network," he expressed. "It is apparent that there are underlying issues at play. Nonetheless, I would like to express my gratitude to my colleagues and the numerous teams I have collaborated with during an amazing journey. They are the most skilled journalists in the industry, and I sincerely wish them all the best."

Contrary to Lemon's account of being fired, CNN countered his statement through a communication team tweet from the official Twitter account. The statement read, "Don Lemon's statement regarding this morning's events is incorrect. He was offered an opportunity to meet with management, but instead chose to release a statement on Twitter."

Don Lemon attends CNN Heroes All-Star Tribute on December 11, 2022 in New York City. Photo Image Press/Shutterstock

Lemon left the show after making a series of controversial remarks on CNN This Morning, which he cohosted with Poppy Harlow and Kaitlan Collins (who are both still on the show). In February, he was temporarily taken off air for making a sexist comment about former United Nations Ambassador Nikki Haley. During a discussion about Haley's suggestion that politicians over the age of 75 should undergo mental competency tests, Lemon said, "Nikki Haley isn't in her prime, sorry." He then went on to define a woman's prime as being in her 20s, 30s, and possibly her 40s.

Shortly after the broadcast, Lemon took to Twitter to apologize for his comments. He wrote, "The reference I made this morning to a woman's 'prime' was poorly worded and unrelated, as colleagues and loved ones have rightly pointed out. I deeply regret it. A woman's age does not define her, both personally and professionally. I am fortunate to have many women in my life who prove this every day."

Two months later, Lemon once again found himself facing trouble following a confrontation with Republican presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy. The debate turned heated as they discussed the Civil War and the Second Amendment, with Lemon expressing his dissatisfaction by stating that Ramaswamy's arguments regarding Black Americans were both "insulting" and incorrect.

Shortly after, The New York Times revealed that this exchange had left CNN's higher-level authorities feeling frustrated and contributed to Lemon's subsequent departure from the network.