After missing four days, Don Lemon will return to CNN This Morning on Wednesday.
Last week, Lemon called 51-year-old 2024 Republican Presidential hopeful Nikki Haley “past her prime”. Haley labeled the remarks sexist, while others have accused Lemon of being ageist, sexist, and “tone-deaf”.
In a memo to CNN employees late Monday, CEO Chris Licht said he has spoken to Lemon about the seriousness of his comments.
“I sat down with Don and had a frank and meaningful conversation. He has agreed to participate in formal training, as well as continuing to listen and learn. We take this situation very seriously.
“It is important to me that CNN balances accountability with fostering a culture in which people can own, learn and grow from their mistakes. To that end, Don will return to CNN This Morning on Wednesday.”
Lemon apologized last week for his comments — both publicly and privately to CNN staffers — saying “I’m sorry that I said it. And I certainly see why people found it completely misguided.”
The 56-year-old morning host was previously scheduled to miss Friday’s show but was absent on Monday. The Daily Beast reported Lemon had been “benched” for Monday’s show, which CNN subsequently denied. Lemon was also absent from CNN This Morning on Tuesday.
