Don Lemon Net Worth, Investments, Bio, Career, Awards, Relationship, And More
Don Lemon, a renowned American journalist and television news anchor, has garnered an estimated net worth of $31 million throughout his career. His notable presence was primarily felt at CNN, notably as the lead anchor and host of “Don Lemon Tonight,” a show that aired from 2014 to 2022. Initially titled “CNN Tonight” until 2021, the show concluded in October 2022. Lemon then transitioned to a co-hosting role on a CNN morning show, but unfortunately, in April 2023, he faced termination from CNN.
Lemon has won three Emmys for his work on “CNN Tonight” and other shows. Many consider him one of the most influential African-American and LGBTQ broadcasters worldwide.
Don Lemon net worth
| Name | Don Lemon |
| Net Worth | $31 Million |
| Profession | CNN Anchor |
| Assets | $22Million |
| Liabilities & Loans | $8 Million |
| CNN Salary | $10 Million |
| Monthly Income | $9,40,000 |
| Yearly Income | $10 Million |
| Annual Expenses | $5,00,000 + |
| Investments | $11 Million |
| Last Updated | 2023 |
Famous CNN anchor Don Lemon net worth is $31 million. His assets amount to $22 million, but his liabilities and loans total $8 million. Lemon has a $10 million annual compensation and $940,000 monthly income. Although his expenses top $500,000, his annual income is $10 million. The Lemon has $11 million in investments.
Don Lemon’s Net Worth Growth
Don Lemon’s financial status has seen notable growth over the past few years:
| Year | Net Worth (Million) |
| 2018 | $12 Million |
| 2019 | $15 Million |
| 2020 | $17 Million |
| 2021 | $20 Million |
| 2022 | $25 Million |
| 2023 | $31 Million |
What made Don Lemon rich?
Don Lemon’s journey to financial success is rooted in his impactful career in journalism. Lemon began as an NBC affiliate and journalist in Philadelphia and Chicago and quickly earned fame as a weekend news anchor on Today, NBC Nightly News, and Weekend Today.
Lemon’s report on Hurricane Katrina on CNN was crucial. Lemon’s accomplishments go beyond anchoring. His thought-provoking book, “This Is The Fire: What I Say to My Friends About Racism,” connected with readers and earned him considerable profits.
Lemon’s salary growth from $250,000 from CNN to $10 million with a $2 million bonus shows his financial rise. These numbers help boost Don Lemon’s reported $31 million net worth.
Lemon tweeted his resignation from CNN, marking a new chapter in his career.
Don Lemon’s Balance Sheet, Income Statement
Don Lemon’s financial statement and assets depict a lavish lifestyle and solid financial standing:
| Luxury Cars | 3 + |
| Luxury Watches | 5 + |
| Assets | $4 Million |
| Inheritance | $2 Million |
| Salary | $10 Million |
| Stock Portfolio | $4,00,000 + |
| Royalty Income | $2,00,000 + |
| Business Income | $5,00,000 + |
| Annual Income | $10 Million |
| Monthly Income | $9,40,000 |
| Annual Income | $10 Million |
| Annual Expense | $5,00,000 + |
| Other Income | $4,00,000 + |
Don Lemon’s financial data and assets show his enormous earnings and wealthy lifestyle.
Quick Facts about Don Lemon
| Full name | don lemon |
| Birth date | Mar 1, 1966 |
| Birthplace | Baton Rouge, LA |
| Nationality | United States of America |
| Age (As of 2023) | 57 years old |
| Zodiac Sign | Leo |
| Gender | Male |
| Ethnicity | African-American |
| Religion | Christianity |
| Parents | Father: Richardson, Mother: Katherine Clark |
| Siblings | Leisa Lemon |
| Marital status | UnMarried |
| Partner | Tim Malone (2017−present; engaged) |
| Eye color | Brown |
| Hair color | Black |
| Height | 6’0″, 183cm |
| Weight | 79Kg, 174lbs |
| Profession | TV Journalist, Journalist |
| Awards | Regional Emmy AwardEdward R. Murrow Award |
Early Life and Background
American-born Don Lemon was born in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, on March 1, 1966. His mixed ethnicity includes African-American and French origins. Lemon is the son of Richardson, his father, and Katherine Lemon Clark, his mother. His family also includes two sisters, Yma and the late Leisa, who tragically passed away due to an accidental drowning at the age of 58.
During his formative years, Lemon lived with his mother and grandmother until the year 1976. He attended Baker High School, where he was voted class president during his senior year. He graduated in broadcast journalism from Brooklyn College after attending Louisiana State University.
Lemon revealed his childhood sexual assault to his mother at 30. He openly identifies as gay and has been in a relationship with Tim Malone. At the 2018 New Year’s celebration, Lemon kissed Tim and announced their romance.
Apart from his personal life, Lemon is known for his outspoken nature, particularly in criticism. Notably, he openly criticized Kanye West’s visit to the White House, branding it as a disgrace to African-Americans. Lemon’s vocal stance on societal and political matters underscores his willingness to express opinions on critical issues.
Career of Don Lemon
Before completing his education, Don Lemon initiated his career by working with various Fox News affiliates. After college, he became an NBC journalist in Philadelphia and Chicago. He started as a correspondent and eventually became a weekend news anchor at affiliate stations in Birmingham, Alabama, and Pennsylvania. He also reported for a St. Louis affiliate as an investigative reporter.
Lemon’s career took him to NBC News’ NYC headquarters. He hosts “Weekend Today” on MSNBC and appears on “Today” and “NBC Nightly News.” He won an Edward R. Murrow Award in 2002 for covering the D.C. sniper and Katrina. His 2003 return to Chicago to work for NBC affiliate WMAQ-TV garnered headlines.
His commendable work as a reporter and local news co-anchor earned him three Emmy Awards. Lemon’s Emmy-winning reports included “Life on Craigslist” and “Africa’s HIV/AIDS Epidemic”. Don Lemon joined CNN in 2006, a major move. His time at the network brought him fame, but not without controversy.
Lemon’s departure from traditional unbiased journalism and his outspoken views led to polarizing opinions from audiences. While gaining popularity, his remarks were often deemed controversial, leading to what some deemed as “gaffes.” Lemon claimed to have received numerous death threats during his time at CNN.
After several issues and dwindling ratings, CNN fired Lemon on April 24, 2023, marking a turning point in his career.
Relationships status
Don Lemon revealed his homosexuality in 2011. In his 2011 memoir, “Transparent,” Lemon admitted to discovering his sexuality at a young age. He also revealed his childhood sexual abuse. Lemon said he has been publicly addressing his sexuality with his close friends, family, and coworkers for years, despite the public’s surprise. He became one of the few gay African-American broadcasters.
Later, in 2017, Don Lemon dated real estate salesman Tim Malone. The couple got engaged in 2019. Lemon’s transparency in his personal life has made him a prominent LGBTQ figure and broadcaster.
Don Lemon Favorite Quotes
Don Lemon, known for his thought-provoking statements, has shared some insightful quotes:
- “Regret is not an apology. I regret that I ran the stop sign, right, but, yeah, I’m not sorry for what I was speaking. I regret that because I got a ticket. You can regret things and still not be sorry for them.” – Don Lemon
- “Everything in Louisiana is about layers. There are layers of race, layers of glass, layers of survival, layers of death, and rebirth layers. To live with these layers is to be a true Louisianian. This state has a depth that is simultaneously beyond words and yet as natural as breathing. How can a place be both other-worldly and completely pedestrian is beyond me; however, Louisiana manages to do it. Louisiana is spooky that way.” – Don Lemon
- “These are the books on my summer reading list. I haven’t had a lot of time off this summer to read, so my list so far is aspirational. The only one that’s a must-read right away is Caste: The Origins of Our Discontents by Isabelle Wilkerson. I’m interviewing her for my podcast, “Silence Is Not An Option.” I’m fascinated by the subject.” – Don Lemon
- “Where are you? Why are you not defending these kids? If not now, when? … If you’re a millionaire, gazillionaire, movie star, or politician, when will you stand up? Don Lemon
- “We don’t have to fight over my opinion and yours. And we can chat. We can differ without being disagreeable and good. I don’t think you don’t like me. We disagree.” Don Lemon
These statements reveal Lemon’s deep thoughts on regret, Louisiana, literature, advocacy, and respectful discourse despite conflicting opinions.
Real Estate
Don Lemon reportedly listed his Harlem house for $1.75 million in 2020. This magnificent 1,400-square-foot property has two bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms. Lemon acquired the home for $1.5 million seven years ago, suggesting a break-even sale with a slight profit.
A large balcony with sweeping views of Harlem and floor-to-ceiling windows enhance the property’s appeal. Note that Lemon sold another property in the same building for $970,000 in 2016.
Lemon bought a Sag Harbour home for $3 million in 2016 and valued it at $4.5 million. Lemon’s shrewd real estate investments in rising-value homes reflect his market acumen.
Don Lemon Investments
Don Lemon’s diverse portfolio comprises various assets and investments:
- Real Estate: Lemon owns an impressive collection of 15 real estate properties, reflecting his significant involvement in the real estate market.
- Vehicle Holdings: He possesses a fleet of 7 cars, demonstrating his penchant for luxury and diverse automotive interests.
- Luxury Yachts: Lemon’s ownership of 3 luxury yachts signifies his appreciation for maritime indulgence and high-end possessions.
- Cash Reserves: Over $30 million in cash reserves gives him a financial cushion for investments and crises.
- Investment Portfolio: Lemon’s investment portfolio features a range of 15 stocks valued at approximately $21 million. His stocks include Johnson & Johnson, Meta Platforms, Dell Technologies, Berkshire Hathaway, Alphabet Inc., and PayPal. These holdings illustrate Lemon’s astute investment strategy across various sectors and industries.
Don Lemon House and Luxury Cars
Don Lemon resides in a lavish home covering an expansive area of 13,300 square feet, situated in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Lemon acquired this luxury property for an estimated $17 million. The house boasts 8 bedrooms and 9 bathrooms, showcasing a grand and spacious living space befitting his affluent lifestyle.
Lemon takes pride in his luxury car collection, which symbolizes his success and accomplishments. His seven cars include Rolls-Royce and Lamborghini, showing his passion for luxury cars.
Lemon recently bought a Rolls-Royce Dawn for $1 million USD, demonstrating his love of luxury cars. Another $1 million USD automobile in his collection is a Lamborghini Aventador.
His broad and elegant collection includes the Range Rover Autobiography, Alfa Romeo Giulia, and McLaren GT. Lemon’s passion for luxury cars is evident in the high-caliber and distinctive models he chooses to own.
Favorite Things of Don Lemon
Don Lemon’s preferences in various aspects of life showcase his individual tastes and interests:
| Favorite Colour | White |
| Favorite Music Artist | Phil Collins |
| Favorite Actor | Robert De Niro |
| Favorite Sport | Golf |
| Favorite Holiday Destination | Australia |
FAQs about Don Lemon net worth
1. What is Don Lemon’s estimated wealth?
Don Lemon’s $31 million net worth comes from journalism, television anchoring, book royalties, and investments.
2. What was Don Lemon’s CNN role?
Don Lemon hosted “Don Lemon Tonight” from 2014 until 2022 (formerly “CNN Tonight” until 2021). After co-hosting a morning show, he left the network in 2023.
3. How did Don Lemon get rich?
Lemon’s wealth came from his CNN anchoring, book sales (“This Is The Fire: What I Say to My Friends About Racism”), and stock and real estate investments.
4. What triggered Don Lemon’s CNN departure?
After controversy, dwindling ratings, and a career turning point, CNN fired Lemon in April 2023.
5. What is Don Lemon’s personal life and relationship like?
Don Lemon revealed his sexuality in 2011. Since 2017, he has been engaged to real estate agent Tim Malone.
6. What are Don Lemon’s journalism accomplishments?
Lemon won three Emmys, a Regional Emmy, and an Edward R. Murrow Award for covering Hurricane Katrina.
7. Major components of Don Lemon’s financial portfolio?
His fortune includes a $21 million stock portfolio, a $17 million Baton Rouge luxury mansion, and luxury cars.
8. What propelled Don Lemon’s journalism career?
Lemon started as a correspondent at NBC affiliates and rose to weekend news anchor and investigative reporter before joining CNN, demonstrating his career growth.
9. What are Don Lemon’s favorite phrases and hobbies?
Lemon’s remarks on responsibility, race, and discourse are enlightening. He likes colors, Phil Collins, Robert De Niro, golf, and Australia.
10. What are Don Lemon’s notable personal traits?
Born in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Don Lemon is American and of African-American and French origin. His story includes overcoming difficulties and advancing media diversity and representation after graduating from Brooklyn College.
Final Words
Don Lemon’s $31 million net worth reflects his work as a TV presenter, writer, and best-selling author. His financial success is due to his high-profile work at CNN and his literary successes, including his anti-racism book.
Don’s extensive stock portfolio and clever real estate investments add to his wealth. His 2023 exit from CNN after controversy and falling ratings marked a turning point in his career.
Despite recent setbacks, Lemon’s reputation as a journalist and media advocate remains significant. He inspires with his resilience, passion, and entrepreneurial skills in the tough journalism and media industry.