Despite his controversial remarks last week, Don Lemon is set to return to his position as anchor of “CNN This Morning” on Wednesday. The move is part of a larger effort by the Warner Bros Discovery-backed outlet to revamp its programming. CNN CEO Chris Licht said in a memo that he had a meaningful conversation with Lemon and that the anchor has agreed to participate in formal training and continue to learn from his mistakes. Licht emphasized that CNN is committed to fostering a culture in which people can grow from their errors while also maintaining accountability.
Last Thursday, Don Lemon made remarks about age and prime during a segment on “CNN This Morning”. Co-anchor Poppy Harlow tried to get him to modify his stance, but Lemon stood by his position that women are considered to be in their prime in their 20s, 30s, and 40s. These comments have been criticized and Lemon has not been on the show since. However, CNN CEO Chris Licht said in a memo on Monday that Lemon will return to “CNN This Morning” on Wednesday after participating in formal training and committing to continue listening and learning.
Apology on Social media by Don Lemon
After Don Lemon’s controversial comments about women’s age, he issued apologies on social media and during an internal editorial call with CNN staff. The incident highlighted the challenges faced by the three co-anchors of “CNN This Morning,” a new program that seeks to merge Lemon’s conversational style with the journalistic approach of Poppy Harlow and Kaitlan Collins. Morning-TV observers believe that Lemon’s comments may have alienated women over 40, a key demographic for news programs that advertisers pay the most to reach. There is also concern within CNN that his line of reasoning may have offended female newsmakers whom the network would like to book on its programs. Despite these concerns, CNN CEO Chris Licht remains committed to fostering a culture of accountability while allowing people to learn and grow from their mistakes.
According to Nielsen data, the viewership for “CNN This Morning” has decreased since its debut in November. The show initially attracted an average of 99,000 viewers between the ages of 25 and 54, but by January, that number had fallen by about 25% to an average of 74,000. Don Lemon’s return on Wednesday presents a challenge for the co-anchors to re-engage viewers and regain momentum for the morning show.