After a lengthy career in broadcast journalism, punctuated by both success and controversy, Don Lemon continues to generate headlines. The former CNN anchor, now hosting “The Don Lemon Show” independently on YouTube, has a well-documented history of public disagreements with prominent figures ranging from politicians to celebrities. Recent events, including his arrest and subsequent clashes with media personalities, underscore a pattern of conflict that has followed Lemon throughout his career.
Donald Trump’s Sustained Criticism
One of Lemon’s most enduring feuds is with former U.S. President Donald Trump. The animosity dates back to 2017, when Trump publicly criticized Lemon’s show during a White House press conference, accusing it of being “anti-Trump” and lamenting the “hatred and venom” he perceived in Lemon’s commentary. Trump’s attacks continued the following year, extending to Lemon’s interview with LeBron James, with Trump tweeting that Lemon made James “look smart, which isn’t easy to do.”
The conflict escalated significantly in 2026 following Lemon’s coverage of ICE protests in Minneapolis. Trump reportedly reshared a social media post suggesting Lemon should be imprisoned. Following Lemon’s arrest, Trump claimed to have no prior knowledge of the situation, but also suggested the arrest might actually increase Lemon’s viewership.
From Friendship to Fallout: Megyn Kelly
The relationship between Don Lemon and Megyn Kelly followed a surprising trajectory, evolving from a “beautiful friendship,” as Kelly once described it, to a bitter rivalry. The turning point came with Kelly’s 2018 controversy involving blackface. Lemon openly criticized NBC’s decision to hire Kelly, questioning both the network’s judgment and her ratings performance.
When Lemon himself faced criticism for on-air comments regarding politician Nikki Haley, Kelly seized the opportunity to publicly rebuke him. While she criticized CNN’s handling of his eventual firing as “classless,” she made it clear her personal animosity towards Lemon remained. By 2024, Kelly was openly stating her intention to “mock” Lemon’s return to media platforms and reportedly called for jail time following his 2026 arrest, signaling a complete breakdown of their former rapport.
A Loyalty Dispute with Chris Cuomo
Another fractured relationship involves former CNN colleague Chris Cuomo. The two were once known for their on-air camaraderie and close off-screen friendship. However, their relationship reportedly deteriorated after Cuomo’s dismissal from CNN in 2021. While Cuomo acknowledged Lemon reached out during that difficult period, he later suggested the support was insufficient.
Speaking on the “PBD Podcast,” Cuomo described himself as a “loyalty guy,” implying he felt let down by Lemon’s response. Despite publicly defending Lemon after his arrest, Cuomo made it clear that their once-tight bond had significantly cooled.
A Brief and Contentious Partnership with Elon Musk
Lemon’s foray into independent broadcasting began with a deal to host “The Don Lemon Show” on X, the platform owned by Elon Musk. However, the partnership proved short-lived and fraught with tension. During their first on-camera interview, Lemon pressed Musk on issues related to immigration posts and content moderation policies on X.
Musk responded with visible irritation, reminding Lemon that he was not obligated to answer his questions and cautioning him to “choose your question carefully.” Within hours of the interview’s conclusion, Musk canceled the show’s distribution deal. Lemon subsequently criticized the move, questioning Musk’s commitment to fostering open dialogue on his platform.
Behind-the-Scenes Tensions with Kaitlan Collins
Reports of friction between Lemon and former “CNN This Morning” co-host Kaitlan Collins surfaced in early 2023. According to insider accounts, Lemon allegedly confronted Collins after a broadcast, expressing his dissatisfaction with her tendency to interrupt him during the show.
While both journalists maintained a publicly professional demeanor, even appearing cordial at subsequent events, sources indicated that the working relationship had become strained behind the scenes.
A Viral Exchange with Jonah Hill
Lemon’s conflicts extend beyond the realm of politics and journalism, reaching into Hollywood. In 2012, Lemon tweeted about an encounter with actor Jonah Hill, suggesting Hill had mistaken him for hotel staff. Hill responded with a sarcastic online retort, asking if Lemon expected him to “move in” with him.
The exchange briefly escalated before Lemon clarified that he did not harbor genuine animosity towards Hill. However, the public spat remains a notable example of Lemon’s propensity for public disagreements.
Don Lemon’s career has been marked by a willingness to engage in direct and often contentious dialogue. While this approach has garnered him attention and a dedicated following, it has also resulted in a series of high-profile feuds that continue to shape his public image. His recent arrest and the ensuing reactions from figures like Trump and Kelly suggest that this pattern of conflict is unlikely to subside anytime soon.
