Prior to the first episode of the former CNN anchor’s new talk show on social media platform X even aired, Don Lemon said Wednesday that Elon Musk had canceled the show.
Lemon took to X and blasted Musk, saying the billionaire was upset over an interview the two had on Friday.
“There were no restrictions on the interview that he willingly agreed to, and my questions were respectful and wide-ranging, covering everything from SpaceX to the presidential election,” Lemon said. “We had a good conversation. Clearly, he felt differently.”
“Elon publicly encouraged me to join X with a new show, saying I would have his ‘full support,’ and that his ‘digital town square is for all.’ I took Elon and his management team’s word that they, for the first time, were interested in working directly with new and diverse voices,” Lemon said on X Wednesday.
In April 2023, Lemon parted ways with CNN and announced his departure on Twitter (X).
“I was informed this morning by my agent that I have been terminated by CNN. I am stunned,” he tweeted in a fiery post announcing his exit. “After 17 years at CNN I would have thought that someone in management would have 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 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.”
But his former network shot back last year.
“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,” said CNN Communications on Twitter.
CNN CEO Chris Licht confirmed the news in a memo to network staffers: “CNN and Don Lemon have parted ways. Don will forever be a part of the CNN family, and we thank him for his contributions over the past 17 years. We wish him well and will be cheering him on in his future endeavors.”
CNN anchor John King seemed surprised by the news during Monday’s broadcast of Inside Politics. “I don’t know the details happening while I’m sitting in the chair here, but I work here. I love this place,” King said “Certainly wish Don the best. He’s always been good to me as a colleague.”
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