Don Lemon Reveals Sexual Harassment Incidents at CNN

ATLANTA, Georgia — Don Lemon, the former CNN anchor, has publicly accused unnamed colleagues of sexual harassment for the first time during an interview on Bill Maher’s podcast, “Club Random,” which aired Sunday. Over nearly two hours, Lemon recounted experiences from his 17-year tenure at the network, sharing unsettling moments that shaped his perceptions of workplace dynamics.

During the episode, Lemon detailed an incident at a CNN cafeteria in Atlanta where a female colleague tweaked his nipples while remarking, “Oh, it’s cold in here!” He expressed disbelief at the double standard he felt was at play, stating, “You realize if I did that, they’d be walking me out the door right now?” Despite the inappropriate behavior, Lemon explained he did not report the incident to Human Resources, fearing repercussions for himself.

“I didn’t care to go to HR. I just thought, ‘it’s a double standard for you,'” Lemon said. He cited another experience involving a different female colleague, indicating it took place off company property during his early years at CNN. “I’ve never told this story as well. Someone who I worked with also harassed me at CNN, and I never went to management,” he shared.

In discussing the second incident, Lemon revealed he felt uncomfortable but rationalized his decision not to report it, concerned that he wouldn’t be believed due to the female harasser’s position within the network. “I wasn’t sure if I’d be believed,” he said. He noted the woman was aware of his sexual orientation and that the situation felt “bizarre,” especially as she was going through personal issues at the time.

When pressed by Maher for specifics, Lemon recounted that the encounter happened after spending time with the colleague at business-related cocktail events. He described an awkward moment where he attempted to leave, but the woman insisted he stay at her place. “No, don’t go home. Stay in the guest room,” she allegedly told him.

Lemon emphasized that the power dynamics in such situations often complicate the response of individuals, stating, “I’m an adult, and maybe I think it is different for men and women depending on the power structure. As a man, I could say, ‘No, I’m not interested.'” His assertion hints at a broader conversation about gender and power in workplace environments.

In a significant moment, Lemon revealed that he was molested as a child, adding another layer to his views on consent and power. “Because you know how to deal with it, and you know what’s really important or not,” he explained. Lemon maintained that he would rather address such issues personally rather than elevate them to HR, believing, “I just tell you, ‘I’m not interested in this.'”

CNN declined to comment on Lemon’s allegations when approached by The Hollywood Reporter. As discussions surrounding workplace misconduct and gender dynamics continue in various industries, Lemon’s revelations may resonate widely, prompting further debate about the environments in which employees work.