In 2024, respected American television journalist Don Lemon net worth value is $12 million. His $10 million CNN salary was the main source of his wealth. Lemon also makes money via book agreements, speaking engagements, and network programming.
| Name | Don Lemon |
| Source of income | Journalism |
| Salary | $8 Million |
| Monthly Income | $1 Million + |
| Yearly Income | $10 Million + |
| Net Worth | $12 Million |
From 2014 to 2022, CNN main anchor Lemon anchored “Don Lemon Tonight” (previously “CNN Tonight” until 2021). Lemon left the show in October 2022 to co-host a CNN morning show. CNN abruptly fired him on April 24, 2023.
Don Lemon received three Emmys for “CNN Tonight” and other ventures. Lemon is one of the most powerful African Americans and LGBTQ figures in television, and his influence goes beyond his wealth.
Lemon’s profits, salaries, investments, real estate holdings, fees, endorsements, assets, and more can be examined for a complete financial picture. Lemon’s multidimensional wealth creation strategy shows how he built and maintained his riches.
Don Lemon Net Worth Growth
Don Lemon’s financial trajectory over the past few years has witnessed notable growth:
| Year | Net Worth (Million) |
| 2019 | $2 Million |
| 2020 | $4 Million |
| 2021 | $6Million |
| 2022 | $8 Million |
| 2023 | $10Million |
| 2024 | $12 Million |
This continuous rise shows Don Lemon’s recent financial achievement.
How Much Money Does Don Lemon Make
As an experienced blogger, I often investigate celebrities’ finances. Let’s examine CNN’s famous journalist Don Lemon’s wages. This page explains Don Lemon’s financial success, which many want to know.
Over his career, Don Lemon’s media fame has led him tremendous financial success. His astounding $4 million to $6 million annual compensation is estimated, but not publicly revealed. Lemon’s journalism expertise and impact are shown by this large revenue.
Importantly, Don Lemon’s wealth is not simply based on his television anchoring. Beyond acting, he is a published author and has appeared in other media. These diversified companies and his CNN career have made Don Lemon wealthy.
Stay back for more on Don Lemon’s career and the many elements that have shaped his amazing financial status.
Don’s Salary and Income Sources
Don Lemon net worth about $12 million due to his hard work and dedication. As one of the wealthiest persons in his sector, his global fame might boost his net worth by 40% in three years.
Let’s examine Don Lemon’s several sources of income:
- CNN Salary: Lemon makes his living as CNN’s This Morning anchor and former Tonight presenter. The exact remuneration is confidential, but estimates range from $10 to $15 million.
- Book Deals: Lemon’s New York Times bestsellers “Transparent” and “Don Lemon: Renegade: My Life in Black and White.” augment his riches. Book sales, including advances and royalties, contribute significantly.
- Speaking Engagements: Lemon charges high fees for conferences, corporate events, and other appearances due to his popularity as a public speaker. This source’s income depends on engagement frequency and exclusivity.
- Endorsements: Don Lemon has endorsed Target and AT&T. Although details are kept private, these arrangements boost his revenue.
- Real estate: Lemon’s New York City and Hamptons properties boost his wealth. These homes are worth millions, boosting his portfolio.
- Investments: Don Lemon reportedly invests in stocks, bonds, and other assets. These investments, worth $21 million, are vital to long-term financial security despite their fluctuation.
Don Lemon’s financial success comes from his CNN role, writing, public speaking, brand endorsements, real estate holdings, and smart investments. Lemon’s ability to manage multiple income streams has made him one of the wealthiest in his business.
Quick Information About Don Lemon
| Full/Real name | Don Lemon |
| Nickname | Don Lemon |
| Birth date | Mar 1, 1966 |
| Birthplace | Baton Rouge, Louisiana, United States |
| Nationality | American |
| Age (As of 2023) | 57 years old |
| Zodiac Sign | Pisces |
| Gender | Male |
| Ethnicity | Black |
| Religion | Christianity |
| Sexual Orientation | Gay |
| Parents | Katherine Marie (Bouligney) and Wilmon Lee Richardson |
| Siblings | Leisa Lemon, Yma Lemon |
| Famous For | being a host on CNN from 2014 until 2024 |
| Education | Baker High School, Louisiana State University, Brooklyn College |
| Profession | TV Journalist, Journalist, CNN Anchor |
Don Lemon Early Life and formative years
Don Lemon, born in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, on March 1, 1966, had a difficult but resilient childhood and early leadership characteristics. Lemon bravely revealed on-air in 2010 that he was sexually molested at five as a Creole child. Despite these obstacles, Lemon persevered.
His election as class president in his senior year of high school showed his early leadership aptitude. After graduating, Lemon attended Louisiana State University before transferring to Brooklyn College to study journalism.
Lemon got vital experience as a news assistant at a New York Fox News affiliate during college. This early exposure helped launch a successful and influential journalism career. Don Lemon’s early life shows tenacity, leadership, and a passion for journalism that would determine his career.
Don Lemon Physical Attributes
Don Lemon’s physical attributes are as follows:
| Eye color | Dark Brown |
| Hair color | Black |
| Height | 6’0″, 183cm |
| Weight | 79Kg, 174lbs |
| Body Measurements | 40-32-35 inch |
These details provide a glimpse into the distinctive features that contribute to Don Lemon’s overall appearance.
Don Lemon Personal Life
| Marital status | Married |
| Spouse | Tim Malone (2017) |
| Children | No |
Don Lemon revealed in 2011 that he had known he was gay since childhood. He described this in his 2011 memoir “Transparent,” where he also discussed his childhood sexual assault. Lemon stressed that he has been upfront about his sexuality with friends, family, and close colleagues for years, despite this announcement startling others.
Don Lemon became one of the only openly gay African Americans in broadcasting after this declaration. Tim Malone, a realtor, first dated him in 2017. The couple got engaged in 2019. Don Lemon’s struggle to embrace his identity has had a personal impact and increased media prominence and representation.
The Career of Don Lemon
Before completing his education, Lemon ventured into the media landscape by working with various Fox News affiliates. Following his college years, he transitioned to becoming a correspondent for NBC in Philadelphia and Chicago. Initially stationed in Birmingham, Alabama, and Pennsylvania, Lemon steadily climbed the ranks from a correspondent to a weekend news anchor. Notably, he also served as an investigative reporter for an affiliate in St. Louis during this phase.
Subsequently, Lemon made a pivotal move to NBC News’ main hub in New York City, where he contributed to programs like “Today” and “NBC Nightly News.” Also anchored “Weekend Today” on MSNBC. He won an Edward R. Murrow Award in 2002 for his coverage of the D.C. sniper. During the same time, his Hurricane Katrina reports were influential.
Lemon moved to Chicago in 2003 and became known for his work at NBC station WMAQ-TV. His “Life on Craigslist” and HIV/AIDS exposé in Africa won him three Emmys.
When Lemon joined CNN in 2006, his career changed. He became famous for his outspoken views at CNN, departing from balanced journalism. Though his views were often criticized as “gaffes,” Lemon maintained by his beliefs, even amid death threats.
Don Lemon Achievements and Awards
Here’s the information presented in a table format for clarity:
| Achievement/Award | Year | Description |
| Emmy Award for Outstanding News Discussion and Analysis | 2006 | Recognized for coverage of the Chicago O’Hare Airport tornado. |
| Edward R. Murrow Award | 2002 | Honored for exceptional coverage of the capture of the D.C. area sniper. |
| Peabody Award | 2005 | Received for impactful coverage of Hurricane Katrina. |
| News & Documentary Emmy Award for Outstanding Live Coverage of a Current News Story – Long Form | 2015 | Acknowledged for reporting on the Charleston church shooting. |
| GLAAD Media Award for Outstanding TV Journalism – Newsmagazine | 2019 | Recognized for an interview with Jussie Smollett. |
| New York Times Best Seller (Memoir – “Transparent”) | – | Achieved Best Seller status for the memoir detailing his life growing up as a gay black man in America. |
| Named one of Time Magazine’s 100 Most Influential People in the World | 2021 | Acknowledged as one of the influential individuals shaping the global landscape. |
These honours honour Don Lemon’s influential journalism and social discourse.
Criticisms of Donald Trump
After President Donald Trump’s election in 2016, Don Lemon became increasingly forthright with his personal opinions on CNN’s programming. Accusing Trump of racism and supporting white supremacy, Lemon continued his criticism beyond the 2020 elections, extending it to Trump’s supporters, who comprised roughly half the country at that time.
In a divisive segment, Lemon, along with two guests, went on to mock Trump supporters using fake southern accents, a move that appeared to insult their intelligence. This particular incident culminated in a notable “laughing fit” from Lemon, which some observers deemed unprofessional. Following this incident, Ivanka Trump took to Twitter, criticizing Lemon for consistently making fun of half the country and then lamenting about division.
Why Did CNN Fire Don Lemon?
Don Lemon’s unexpected termination from CNN was disclosed through a tweet where he expressed his shock at being informed by his agent. Despite his 17 years at CNN, Lemon revealed that he never received direct indications about the possibility of termination and expressed disappointment in the lack of decency from management. He thanked his colleagues for the incredible run and acknowledged the talented teams at CNN.
CNN, in response, released a statement acknowledging Don Lemon’s contributions over the past 17 years and expressing gratitude. CNN CEO Chris Licht conveyed well wishes for Lemon’s future endeavors, emphasizing that he will always be a part of the CNN family. Despite the surprising departure, Licht affirmed the network’s commitment to the success of the CNN This Morning program, which Lemon began hosting in November 2022.
Don Lemon Balance Sheet
| Assets | Estimated Value |
| Cash | $500,000 + |
| Inheritance | $2 million |
| Gold Reserves | $400,000 + |
| Luxury Cars | 3 + |
| Luxury Watches | 5 + |
| Stock Portfolio | $4 million + |
| Luxury Yachts | 2 + |
| Crypto Investments | $1 million + |
| Investment | $6 million |
| Business Income | $500,000 + |
| Other Income | $400,000 + |
| Liabilities | Amount |
| Loans | $8 million + |
| Annual Expenses | Amount |
| Annual Expense | $500,000 + |
| Taxes Paid | Amount |
| Taxes Paid | $60,000 + |
This table shows Don Lemon’s assets, liabilities, annual expenses, and taxes.
Don Lemon Real Estate
Don Lemon reportedly offered his Harlem house for $1.75 million in 2020. The elegant 1,400-square-foot condo includes two bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms. Lemon bought the property seven years earlier for $1.5 million, suggesting a little profit margin or break even.
A large balcony with Harlem views and floor-to-ceiling windows are notable. Lemon sold another construction property for $970,000 in 2016. In 2016, he bought a $3 million Sag Harbour Hamptons mansion. $4.5 million is estimated for this Hamptons house.
Don Lemon House
In the city of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Don Lemon resides in a luxurious home that spans 13,300 square feet. An expansive floor plan with eight bedrooms and nine bathrooms is included in the property that Don Lemon is selling, which is estimated to be worth over seventeen million dollars.
Don Lemon’s Cars
Don Lemon recently added a luxurious Rolls-Royce Dawn to his collection, a lavish purchase totaling $1 million. Additionally, he possesses a Lamborghini Aventador with a similar price tag. Among his other notable vehicles are the Range Rover Autobiography, Alfa Romeo Giulia, and McLaren GT.
Don sold his Harlem house for millions.
In February 2021, Don Lemon sold his Harlem, NY property for $1.525 million, reports the L.A. Times. He profited by buying the home for $37,000 cheaper in 2013. The decision to sell was attributed to his acquisition of a new residence in the Hamptons, a “quaint cottage” for which he reportedly paid $3.1 million in 2016, as per The New York Post.
Sources indicate that Don and his fiancé, Tim Malone, chose to move due to outgrowing the space in their NYC condo. Despite their affection for the neighborhood, a spy mentioned, “They love the neighborhood and are staying, but they outgrew the space.” Notably, Don Lemon had downsized a few years earlier, reportedly residing in a one-bedroom apartment. Reports state that he acquired surrounding units, combining them before selling the apartment for $969,000 in 2017.
The article also touches on Don and Tim’s engagement, suggesting that the decision to move into a larger space may be linked to plans of starting a family. In a March 2021 interview with Tamron Hall, Don expressed his thoughts on family planning, indicating a consideration of adoption or surrogacy. However, they plan to wait until after marriage, with a postponed wedding due to the ongoing pandemic. Don humorously hinted that Tim, being younger, might be the one to endure the physical changes of parenthood.
Controversies and apology
While enjoying a successful career, Don Lemon has encountered controversies during his time at CNN. His reputation for expressing strong views occasionally led him to depart from traditional journalistic norms, resulting in criticism and, on certain occasions, apologies to his colleagues. It’s worth noting that these challenges did not diminish his accomplishments, which include the receipt of three Emmy Awards.
Don Lemon Favorite Things
| Colour | White |
| Actor | Robert De Niro |
| Sport | Golf |
| Artist | Phil Collins |
| Holiday Destination | Australia |
Don Lemon’s Social Media Following
| Social Media | Followers | |
| 715,000 Followers | Click here | |
| 1.4 Million Followers | Click here | |
| 977,000 Followers | Click here |
Conclusion
Don Lemon net worth $12million in 2024 is the result of his successful journalism and entrepreneurial career. Lemon has earned a lot of money from his early days as a Fox News affiliate news assistant to his current CNN anchorship.
His $10-15 million CNN salary was big. Lemon also made money as a New York Times bestseller author, public speaker, and brand endorsement. Real estate in New York City and the Hamptons increased his riches.
Lemon’s financial success is a testament to his persistence, achievements, and strategic investments despite controversy and an unexpected CNN departure in 2023. From $12 million in 2019 to $12 million in 2024, his net worth shows his ability to manage the competitive media industry.
As Don Lemon explores new chances and businesses, his financial expertise and media sector influence will undoubtedly boost his net worth. His career as a pioneering journalist and broadcasting figure solidifies his status as one of the most successful and influential in the field.
