Don Lemon is on skinny ice at CNN — though he is being welcomed again for now, TMZ has discovered he is a strike away from getting the boot completely, and he is aware of it.
Sources with direct data about Don’s scenario inform us … when the veteran anchor spoke with higher administration this week to debate his sexist feedback and the trail ahead, he was informed this was his ultimate warning on such antics.
2/16/23
CNN
We’re informed it was communicated to Don in no unsure phrases … the subsequent time he insults his cohosts or creates a poisonous surroundings (on or off-air) might be his final with the community.
Of course, we all know Don agreed to those phrases along with signing off on taking part in formal coaching of some kind. The man’s set to return to his job Wednesday, so he is up to the mark on all this.
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 each day.
— Don Lemon (@donlemon) February 16, 2023
@donlemon
It’s fascinating Don was given this ultimatum, particularly since we have heard from individuals in his world that he isn’t blissful at CNN — in no way — so the uneasiness is mutual.
As for why Don was given such a brief leash — properly, the actual fact is … he is fairly polarizing. DL’s racked up destructive headlines (for one cause or one other) lately, and never simply from criticism from individuals on the precise.
CNN
There’s one other issue right here too that should be on the minds of Chris Licht and co. … scores. Not solely have been Don’s numbers for his former primetime slot not sturdy sufficient to warrant him sticking round there … scores on his new gig have tanked.
Plus, we’re listening to staffers at CNN are nonetheless on edge over Thursday’s incident … with one supply saying the anger is actual and hasn’t died down. It’s actually turn out to be a distraction.
Eggshell metropolis on the Cable News Network, it appears. 😬