Mixed Signals from Semafor Media Don Lemon on Elon Musk, Chris Cuomo, and why YouTube is better than CNN
Aug 22, 2025
Join Don Lemon, former CNN anchor turned YouTube star, as he shares insights on his leap from cable news to digital platforms. He discusses his legal tussle with Elon Musk and why he believes YouTube might earn him more than his CNN days. Lemon reflects on his relationship with Chris Cuomo and the impact of corporate influence on media integrity. He emphasizes the growing appeal of moderate voices and critiques the sensationalism in traditional media, while navigating the challenges faced by independent creators.
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Planned Pivot From Local TV To Own Channel
- Don Lemon traced his career from local stations to New York and said he planned a personal channel well before leaving CNN.
- He viewed cable's decline early and prepared to pivot to independent streaming before his exit.
Zucker's Exit Marked CNN's Turning Point
- Don Lemon says Jeff Zucker's exit signaled to him that CNN's future was in trouble and CNN Plus' failure removed a digital runway.
- He argues changing editorial direction toward the right would alienate core audiences and accelerate tuning out.
He Created The Long Handoff Bit
- Don Lemon explained he invented the extended 'handoff' banter segment and used it to entertain and hold viewers before the news rundown.
- He said producers worried it hurt the A block, but he kept it because it boosted ratings.