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Don Lemon is an American television journalist best known for his longtime role as a CNN anchor. He gained national recognition for hosting CNN Tonight with Don Lemon and later co-hosting CNN This Morning.
Quick Bio
- Full Name: Don Carlton Lemon
- Date of Birth: March 1, 1966
- Age: 59 years (as of 2025)
- Birthplace: Baton Rouge, Louisiana, USA
- Nationality: American
- Ethnicity: African-American
- Zodiac Sign: Pisces
- Profession: Journalist, News Anchor, Author
- Years Active: 1990s – present
- Known For: CNN Anchor (2006–2023)
Early Life, Family & Education
Don Lemon was born in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. He was raised in Louisiana and later pursued higher education in journalism.
He initially attended Louisiana State University before transferring to Brooklyn College in New York, where he studied broadcast journalism.
Before joining national networks, Lemon worked at local television stations and later became a correspondent for NBC News, building his reputation as a serious journalist.
Parents & Siblings
Don Lemon was born to Katherine Clark and Mr. Richardson (his biological father).
Education
He attended Louisiana State University before completing his studies in broadcast journalism at Brooklyn College in New York City.
Career
Lemon began his journalism career in the 1990s, working at local stations before joining NBC News.
In 2006, he joined CNN and eventually became one of the network’s most recognized primetime anchors.
He hosted CNN Tonight with Don Lemon and later co-hosted CNN This Morning.
In April 2023, CNN announced that Lemon would be leaving the network following internal controversies and corporate restructuring.
After his departure, he launched independent media projects and continued public commentary.
Arrest & Legal Charges (2026)
On January 29, 2026, Don Lemon was arrested in Los Angeles by federal agents in connection with a January 18 protest at Cities Church in St. Paul, Minnesota. Federal authorities charged him under:
- 18 U.S.C. § 241 – Conspiracy Against Rights
- 18 U.S.C. § 248 – Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances (FACE Act), applied to religious worship protections
Prosecutors allege that the protest disrupted a church service and interfered with worshippers’ First Amendment rights.
Lemon’s legal team has stated he was present in a journalistic capacity and intends to plead not guilty.
He was released pending further court proceedings. An arrest does not imply guilt, and the case remains ongoing.
Notable Works
- CNN Tonight with Don Lemon
- CNN This Morning
- Author of books addressing race and media
- NBC News Correspondent
Awards & Recognition
- Edward R. Murrow Award
- Regional Emmy Awards
- Recognized for coverage of major national events
Relationships, Husband & Children
Don Lemon married real estate agent Tim Malone in 2024.
He does not have publicly known children.
Physical Measurements
- Height: Approximately 5 feet 11 inches (180 cm)
- Weight: Not publicly disclosed
- Body Type: Average
- Hair Color: Black
- Eye Color: Brown
Social Media
- Instagram: @donlemoncnn (official account prior to CNN departure)
- X (Twitter): @donlemon
- Facebook: Official Don Lemon page
- Shares commentary, interviews, and media updates
Net Worth
As of 2026, Don Lemon’s estimated net worth is between $12–20 million.
Trivia
- Worked at NBC News before joining CNN.
- Has authored multiple books focused on race and American society.
- Won prestigious journalism awards during his broadcast career.
- His 2026 arrest sparked national debate about press freedom and protest rights.
FAQs
Was Don Lemon arrested?
Yes, he was arrested in January 2026 in connection with a protest at a Minnesota church.
Why was Don Lemon arrested?
Federal prosecutors allege he participated in actions that interfered with worshippers’ civil rights during a protest.
Has Don Lemon been convicted?
No. As of now, the charges are pending and he has not been convicted.
