Don Lemon Returns To CNN Morning Show, Doesn’t Issue On-Air Apology After Nikki Haley Comments

Katie JerkovichFebruary 22, 2023

Don Lemon, who was criticized for his remarks about the Republican presidential hopeful, returned to his morning program on Wednesday. He did not apologize on air. Nikki Haley not being “in her prime.”

The Anchor Of “CNN This Morning” After dealing with blowback from his remarks about the 51-year-old former United Nations ambassador.

Lemon was joined by Kaitlan Collins and Poppy Harlow as co-anchors, and the trio continued with their business as usual, without any mention of the drama.

The long-serving CNN host was present before the show. Tweet His return.

“I appreciate the opportunity to be back on [CNNThisMorning] today,” Lemon was posted. “To my network, my colleagues and our incredible audience — I’m sorry. I’ve heard you, I’m learning from you, and I’m committed to doing better. See you soon.”

Thank you for the chance to be back at a href=”https://twitter.com/CNNThisMorning?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw”>@CNNThisMorning today. To my network, my colleagues and our incredible audience — I’m sorry. I’ve listened, I’m learning, and I’m determined to do better.
We hope to see you soon.

— Don Lemon (@donlemon) February 22, 2023

Variety says that Lemon did not offer any kind of apology on CNN’s air when he made his appearance. Variety also claims that this is not the way networks have dealt similar backlash in recent decades.

Bill Maher shocked viewers in 2017 “Real Time” He used a racial slur during a joke on the program. He apologized and returned to the program. The outlet reported.

Megyn Kelly debated on her NBC program whether blackface should be worn as part of a Halloween costume in 2018. After being criticized, she made amends and returned to the show to participate in a panel discussion along with Roland Martins and Amy Holmes.

It isn’t clear just how secure Lemons spot on the network is. TMZ According to sources, Lemon was told by people with knowledge about the situation that this was his last warning. co-hosts Oder To create a toxic environment He’s gone. Examples of past examples include telling S.E. Cupp that she was having an affair. “mommy brain” When she misunderstood her words during a segment.

In a Monday letter, Chris Licht, President of CNN, informed staffers that Lemon had signed to “participate in formal training,” Variety noted.

“We take this situation very seriously,” Licht shared. “It is important to me that CNN balances accountability with fostering a culture in which people can own, learn and grow from their mistakes.”