Don Lemon returned to CNN This Morning, nearly one week after sexist feedback he made discussing Nikki Haley sparked backlash. On Wednesday, the embattled anchor sat subsequent to co-host Poppy Harlow and opted to not point out the controversy. However, Lemon tweeted one other apology 25 minutes earlier than taking the air.
“I’ve heard you, I’m learning from you, and I’m committed to doing better,” he wrote.
I respect the chance to be again on @CNNThisMorning right this moment. To my community, my colleagues and our unbelievable viewers — I’m sorry. I’ve heard you, I’m studying from you, and I’m dedicated to doing higher.
See you quickly.— Don Lemon (@donlemon) February 22, 2023
Lemon discovered himself in sizzling water final Thursday whereas discussing Haley, declaring that at age 51, the Republican presidential candidate shouldn’t be “in her prime.” (“A woman is considered to be in their prime in her 20s and 30s and maybe 40s,” he added.) Hours after the second went viral, Lemon apologized publicly for the “inartful and irrelevant” reference.
The reference I made to a lady’s “prime” this morning was inartful and irrelevant, as colleagues and family members have identified, and I remorse it. A lady’s age does not outline her both personally or professionally. I’ve numerous girls in my life who show that every single day.
— Don Lemon (@donlemon) February 16, 2023
On Friday, Lemon was off the air as his absence was pre-planned forward of Presidents’ Day weekend. However, he known as into the each day editorial name and provided a lengthier apology to his colleagues as CNN CEO Chris Licht condemned the journalist’s remarks. He was absent on Monday and sidelined Tuesday.
Licht despatched a memo to employees earlier this week addressing Lemon’s absence and asserting his return date.
“I sat down with Don and had a frank and meaningful conversation. He has agreed to participate in formal training, as well as continuing to listen and learn. We take this situation very seriously,” Licht stated within the observe obtained by Yahoo Entertainment. “It is important to me that CNN balances accountability with fostering a culture in which people can own, learn and grow from their mistakes.”
A supply advised Yahoo that regardless of a report suggesting in any other case, “there is no indication” Lemon will probably be ousted over the scandal. However, the community insider conceded this incident is simply the most recent sparking on set “tension” between Lemon and his colleagues in what’s been a dramatic few months.
Viewership for CNN This Morning has dipped because it premiered in November, Variety experiences, and a few insiders consider Lemon’s ageist and sexist feedback about might be detrimental to advertisers or potential feminine company on this system. Lemon’s remarks are additionally offensive to a key a part of the present’s morning viewers… girls over 40.