Don Lemon CNN, Bio, Age, Height, Husband, Kids, Net Worth

Don Lemon Biography

Don Lemon (born March 1, 1966) is a well-known American journalist, author, and media personality. He was raised in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and later studied journalism at Brooklyn College. From the start, he showed strong interest in broadcast news and storytelling.

Early in his career, Lemon worked at local television stations in Birmingham, Philadelphia, and Chicago. Later, he joined NBC News as a correspondent. During this period, he reported on major national and international stories. As a result, he built credibility and national recognition.

In 2006, Lemon joined CNN, which marked a turning point in his career. He became widely known as the host of CNN Tonight with Don Lemon. Over the years, he covered breaking news, politics, and social justice issues. He also earned Emmy Awards and an Edward R. Murrow Award for his journalism.

Notably, Lemon is one of the first openly gay Black men to anchor a prime-time cable news program. In addition, he authored Transparent and This Is the Fire, where he discussed race, identity, and American culture.

After leaving CNN in 2023, Lemon transitioned into independent journalism. Since then, he has focused on digital media, commentary, and press freedom discussions. Despite recent legal controversies, Don remains an influential voice in modern American journalism.

Don Lemon Age

How old is Don Lemon?

Don Lemon was born on March 1, 1966, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. As of 2026, he is 59 years old. However, he will turn 60 in March 2026. Despite his age, he remains active in journalism, media commentary, and public discourse.

Don Lemon‘s Height

How tall is Don Lemon?

Don stands approximately 5 feet 10½ inches (1.79 meters) tall. He maintains a confident on-screen presence during interviews and broadcasts. Moreover, his height aligns with many television journalists. Overall, Don Lemon’s height often draws interest from fans and media followers alike.

Don Lemon Husband

Is Don Lemon married?

Don is married to Tim Malone, a New York–based real estate agent. They met in the Hamptons and later began dating in 2016. After several years together, they announced their engagement in 2019. The couple married on April 6, 2024, in New York City. Moreover, Tim Malone specializes in luxury real estate and maintains a successful career. The couple share a strong bond and often speak about mutual support. During career transitions, Lemon has credited his husband for stability and encouragement. Today, him and Tim Malone remain a visible and respected married couple.

Don Lemon Children | Kids

Don Lemon does not have biological children. However, he and his husband, Tim Malone, often discuss plans for starting a family in the future. The couple currently focuses on their three rescue dogs, which they consider part of their family. Lemon has expressed that he values family deeply and intends to provide a nurturing home for children when the time is right. Despite not having kids yet, he frequently emphasizes parental responsibility, love, and guidance in interviews. His family life highlights personal growth, commitment, and support alongside his career.

Don Lemon Parents

Don Lemon was born to Katherine Marie (Clark) and Wilmon Lee Richardson in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. His mother, Katherine, emphasized education, resilience, and justice. His father, Wilmon, worked as an attorney and helped challenge segregation in Baton Rouge public transportation. Lemon learned about his biological father after age five, as he was given his mother’s then-husband’s surname at birth. His relationship with his father ended when his father passed away due to health issues. He grew up with two sisters, Leisa and Yma, in a close-knit family, which shaped his values and work ethic.

Don Lemon Siblings

Don Lemon grew up with two sisters, Leisa Lemon and Yma Lemon, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Leisa Lemon was his older sister and childhood “partner in crime.” Sadly, she passed away at age 58 after an accidental drowning in January 2018. Lemon publicly mourned her loss and shared personal memories. Meanwhile, Yma Lemon is his surviving sister and maintains a private life away from the media. Despite limited public details, he has often emphasized the importance of family support throughout his career and personal growth.

Don Lemon’s Education

Don Lemon attended Baker High School in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where he became class president as a senior. Next, he enrolled at Louisiana State University before transferring to Brooklyn College in New York City. At Brooklyn College, he majored in broadcast journalism and earned his Bachelor’s degree in 1996. While studying, he interned at a New York television station, gaining practical news experience. After graduation, Lemon began his professional news career in local broadcast journalism, which later led to national roles and major network coverage. His education built the foundation for his successful journalism career.

Don Lemon Fired From CNN

Why was Don Lemon fired from CNN?

In April 2023, Don Lemon was fired from CNN after working at the network for 17 years. He publicly stated he felt shocked and disappointed by the decision. At the time, he co-hosted CNN This Morning following his prime-time show exit. However, his firing followed on-air controversies and reported workplace concerns. CNN described the exit as a mutual separation, although Lemon disagreed. After leaving CNN, Don received a settlement and shifted toward independent journalism. Today, his CNN firing remains a major turning point in his media career.

Don Lemon and Nicki Minaj Public Clash, Controversy & Reaction

In early 2026, Don Lemon and Nicki Minaj became part of a widely covered public clash. The feud began after Lemon reported on an anti‑ICE protest at a Minnesota church, which drew sharp criticism from the rapper. Nicki Minaj publicly attacked Lemon on social media, using a homophobic slur and calling for his arrest. She said his actions disrespected religion and should have legal consequences. In response, Lemon strongly rejected her remarks, called her comments bigoted, and criticized her understanding of journalism. He urged her to focus on issues she knows. Overall, the clash between Don and Nicki Minaj became a major cultural moment, linking journalism, celebrity influence, and online controversy.

Don Lemon Arrested

Why was Don Lemon arrested?

In January 2026, Don Lemon was arrested by federal agents in Los Angeles after reporting on an anti‑ICE protest at a Minnesota church. Federal authorities charged him and three others with civil rights violations and conspiracy for allegedly interfering with worshippers’ rights. Lemon repeatedly said he was on assignment as a journalist, not as a protester. Moreover, his lawyer argued the arrest threatened press freedom and the First Amendment. Lemon was released without bail and plans to fight the charges in court.
The arrest sparked strong debate over journalism rights and legal boundaries in protest coverage.

Don Lemon’s Lawsuit – Suit Against Elon Musk & X Explained

Don Lemon filed a lawsuit against Elon Musk and X after a planned content partnership fell apart. He claims the platform canceled the deal unfairly and refused to pay him agreed money. Moreover, Lemon alleges fraud, breach of contract, and misuse of his name and likeness in the complaint. His lawsuit seeks to hold Elon Musk and X executives accountable in court. A judge recently ruled Lemon can continue his lawsuit in San Francisco Superior Court and the case can go to trial. His legal action remains a high‑profile media and contract dispute in 2026.

Don Lemon Net Worth

As of early 2026, Don Lemon’s estimated net worth is about $20 million, earned through his journalism career, contracts, and investments. He earned a high-paying salary at CNN and received a large settlement after his departure. Moreover, his wealth includes real estate holdings and earnings from books, speaking engagements, and other media work.