What happened to former CNN star Don Lemon?

Former CNN anchor Don Lemon pleaded not guilty in federal court in Minnesota after being charged in connection with a controversial January protest that disrupted a church worship service. Lemon left CNN in 2023; here’s what he’s been up to since then.

Why did Don Lemon leave CNN?

Lemon’s split with CNN came after a series of on‑air controversies and criticism of comments he made during broadcasts, including remarks interpreted as sexist that drew public backlash. CNN offered no specific explanation for his firing at the time, and Lemon described the news of his dismissal as a surprise. Lemon, now 59, rose to national prominence over his 17‑year career at CNN, where he became one of the network’s most recognizable faces. He hosted Don Lemon Tonight and later co‑anchored CNN This Morning before his departure in April 2023.

After leaving CNN, Lemon pivoted to independent media. He launched a self‑produced news program, including a YouTube channel and livestream show, and has been vocal on social and political issues, frequently criticizing government policies and emphasizing First Amendment protections.

What happened between Don Lemon and Elon Musk?

In 2024, Lemon briefly announced a new show that was to launch on X, the social media platform recently purchased by Elon Musk. However, that project was abruptly canceled. Lemon said after that Musk was “mad” following a tough interview, and that the partnership was terminated unexpectedly. This episode marked a falling out with Musk that derailed Lemon’s planned expansion into X‑based programming. Musk shared on social media that Lemon’s “approach was basically just ‘CNN, but on social media,’ which doesn’t work.”

Since then, Lemon has continued carving out a digital media presence, producing his own content on platforms like YouTube and building an independent audience. He has covered major news developments, political protests, and trending cultural events.

At the same time, Lemon is suing Musk and X Corp for $35 million, alleging fraud, breach of implied contract, and misappropriation of name and likeness. In July 2025, a San Francisco judge ruled that the case could proceed to trial, rejecting Musk’s attempts to move the venue to Texas or dismiss the fraud claims.

What happened to Don Lemon in Minnesota?

Lemon is facing federal charges in Minnesota for conspiracy to deprive civil rights and violating the FACE Act after documenting a January 18 anti-ICE protest that disrupted a church service, with prosecutors alleging his actions went beyond reporting. Lemon and his attorneys argue he was acting as a journalist and that the charges threaten First Amendment protections, while the case moves through pretrial proceedings.

After livestreaming the protest for his online show, federal agents arrested Lemon on Jan. 30 in Los Angeles, where he was covering the Grammy Awards. Lemon was released shortly after his arrest, with no bail required, but the federal government subsequently charged him.

What’s next for Don Lemon?

Lemon appeared before a magistrate judge in St. Paul on Feb. 13, 2026, where he formally denied allegations that he violated federal civil rights statutes linked to the demonstration. Lemon’s legal team has maintained that he was present to document the protest, not to participate in any disruption.

With his not guilty plea entered, Lemon’s case will proceed through the federal court system in Minnesota. Prosecutors allege Lemon’s actions during the church protest crossed the line between reporting and unlawful disruption. His defense argues the charges are an unconstitutional attempt to chill journalistic activity protected by the First Amendment. If convicted, Lemon could face up to one year in federal prison and a fine of up to $10,000.