Renowned news anchor Don Lemon announced on Monday that he has been terminated from his role at CNN. This comes in the wake of a recent Variety article discussing allegations that Lemon had behaved inappropriately towards female colleagues throughout his tenure at the network. Earlier this year, Lemon also faced criticism for controversial comments made during a broadcast.
Lemon shared the news of his termination via Twitter, expressing his shock and disappointment that no one from CNN management had personally informed him of the decision. He had been with the network for 17 years.
CNN CEO Chris Licht issued a statement confirming that the network and Lemon had "parted ways," expressing gratitude for his 17 years of service and wishing him well in his future endeavors.
Lemon joined CNN in 2006 after working as an anchor for NBC Chicago and as a correspondent for NBC News, the "TODAY" show, and "NBC Nightly News." He first faced criticism in February when discussing Republican presidential candidate Nikki Haley's suggestion that candidates over 75 years old should undergo mental competency exams. Lemon commented that Haley, 51, was no longer in her "prime," further stating that a woman's prime is typically during her 20s, 30s, and 40s.
Despite the public backlash, Licht stated that Lemon had agreed to undergo training and that both CNN and Lemon had "moved on" from the issue. Licht also acknowledged Lemon's reputation as a controversial figure, attributing it to his rise to prominence during a time when such behavior was encouraged in prime-time television.
Q&A Section:
Q: Why was Don Lemon terminated from CNN?
A: Don Lemon was terminated from CNN after allegations surfaced that he mistreated female colleagues and made controversial comments on-air.
Q: What controversial comments did Don Lemon make?
A: Don Lemon made controversial comments when discussing Republican presidential candidate Nikki Haley, stating that she was no longer in her "prime" and that a woman's prime is typically during her 20s, 30s, and 40s.
