Following his departure from CNN, Don Lemon is reportedly preparing to take legal action.

According to The New York Times, Lemon has joined forces with renowned Hollywood attorney Bryan Freedman to execute the inner dealings of his exit from the network. Furthermore, two insiders at the company have anonymously revealed that the journalist’s current contract with CNN was set to run through 2026.

Don Lemon's Exit

As previously reported by AfroTech, on Monday (April 25), Lemon announced his abrupt exit after 17 years at the network. Following his big break in the business in September 2006, the journalist would go on to cover major global news including the 2008 Presidential election, Michael Jackson’s passing in 2009, and more.

“I am stunned,” said Lemon in a statement shared on Twitter. “After 17 years at CNN, I would have thought that someone in management would have had the decency to tell me directly. At no time was I ever given any indication that I would not be able to continue to do the work I have loved at the network.”

CNN denies Lemon’s allegations, noting that he “was offered an opportunity to meet with management but instead released a statement on Twitter.”

What Happened?

According to the insiders, Lemon’s tension with the network began following an on-air segment in February where he stated that 51-year-old Republican presidential candidate Nikki Haley “isn’t in her prime.”

“A woman is considered to be in her prime in her 20s and 30s and maybe 40s,” he continued.

Following the remarks, many accused Lemon of sexism and ageism, and ultimately he issued an apology to the CNN newsroom and also agreed to participate in a corporate training program to address the behavior he exhibited on-air.

Just as Lemon appeared to be shocked by the news of his departure, so have fans and friends of the media personality.

Support From The Community

Rapper and entrepreneur Rick Ross went as far as offering Lemon a job at one of his Wingstop locations. He reportedly owns more than two dozen across the nation.

“Just found out Don Lemon was terminated from CNN,” Ross said via Instagram. “D-mn, dawg. But guess what? The brothers got your back.”

He continued: “We’re hiring at Wingstop. And for some reason, I believe you know what you doing with the lemon pepper wings, so man, just send over your resume. I’mma make sure I get you in front of the right grill, brother. Stay solid, brother.”

The “Aston Martin Music” emcee also offered him a business opportunity through his energy-drink company, Rapstar.