CNN star Don Lemon is out after a tumultuous run on their daytime show CNN This Morning that included some eyebrow-raising moments.
“I was informed this morning by my agent that I have been terminated by CNN. I am stunned. After 17 years at CNN, I would have thought that someone in management would have had 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.”
The trouble started after his comments that former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley was “past her prime,” which many considered sexist and ageist.
The show has had ratings challenges as well. CEO Chris Licht said in a memo:
To my CNN Colleagues,
CNN and Don 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 This Morning has been on the air for nearly six months, and we are committed to its success.
Image: Dennis Van Tine/Geisler-Fotopres / DPA Picture Alliance / Avalon
