CNN Fires Don Lemon

In a shocking turn of events, Don Lemon has been fired by CNN. The former host revealed in a statement that he was informed of his termination by his agent and was left stunned by the news. After dedicating 17 years to the network, Lemon expressed his disappointment that no one in management had the decency to tell him directly. Despite never being given any indication that he would not be able to continue his work, Lemon acknowledged that there were larger issues at play. He thanked his colleagues and the many teams he worked with for an incredible run, calling them the most talented journalists in the business.

Lemon’s ouster from the network comes as new CEO Chris Licht aims to restore credibility and tamp down on hyper-partisan voices. Lemon’s recent spat with his female co-hosts on “CNN This Morning” and his controversial comments about Nikki Haley being “past her prime” have also been called into question. In fact, Variety reported that Lemon has faced allegations since 2008 that he has not treated women well in the workplace.

According to sources who worked at CNN at the time, tensions between Lemon and Kyra Phillips had been increasing for months before reaching a boiling point when Phillips got an assignment that Lemon wanted. Lemon allegedly tore up pictures and notes on top of and inside Phillips’ desk in the news pod they shared. After Phillips returned from the assignment, she received a threatening text message from an anonymous number that was later traced back to Lemon.

The report also alleged that Lemon called one of the female producers fat to her face and mocked then-CNN anchor Nancy Grace while on air. He reportedly had issues with then-CNN anchor Soledad O’Brien after she was named as host of the network’s “Black in America” docuseries, saying that she was not black during an editorial call. Former colleagues complained about his diva-like behavior, and some claimed that he changed over time into someone who likes fame and power.

This is a developing story, so stay tuned for updates.

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