Profile
American Television Journalist
#41 in TV Hosts today
As of 2024, Don Lemon has a net worth of $27 million. Lemon was earning a $5 million salary annually when he was fired by CNN. In the last twelve months his net worth has significantly dropped due to the disastrous ratings of his podcasts and shows.
Inheritance
Don Lemon’s father, Wilmon Richardson, was a successful attorney. Wilmon Richardson was a titan of the legal world in Louisiana who has amassed a clientele from CEOs and politicians to celebrities and sports stars. Richardson was one of the richest and highest-earning lawyers in the United States.
The bulk of Richardson’s estate includes real estate holdings located in Baton Rouge. This includes a spacious family home in a prestigious neighborhood, an office building in the city’s downtown area, and several rental properties.
Don Lemon Net Worth 2024 (Forbes)
| Net Worth | $27 million |
| Annual Income | $1.92 Million |
| CNN Salary | $5 Million |
| Bank Balance | $1 Million |
| Inheritance | $8 Million |
CNN Settlement
CNN reportedly paid Don Lemon a settlement of around $25 million when he left the network in 2023. As part of his severance package, Lemon reportedly received this multimillion-dollar payout. The settlement reflects the significant financial impact of Lemon’s departure from CNN.
Real Estate Assets
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Mansion, Baton Rouge, Louisiana | $4 Million |
| Apartment, New York City, New York | $1.7 Million |
| Undeveloped land, Rural Louisiana | $1 Million |
| 60-acre farmland, Maui | $1.4 Million |
Legal Troubles
Don Lemon has faced several allegations of misogynistic behavior and workplace misconduct throughout his career. These allegations have ranged from offensive comments and disrespectful treatment of female colleagues to inappropriate advances and bullying behavior.
One notable instance occurred in 2008 when Lemon reportedly tore up papers on the desk of his then-co-anchor Kyra Phillips and sent her threatening text messages after she was selected for an assignment in Iraq that he had wanted for himself.
In 2019, a man filed a lawsuit against Lemon alleging that he had sexually assaulted him in a bar in Sag Harbor, New York.
According to sources, Lemon paid $200k to settle the case outside the court. Despite the allegations against him, Lemon has maintained his innocence and stated that these problems and allegations are due to his huge wealth.