Don Lemon’s Bizarre Subway Stunt Sparks Mixed Reactions Online

In a strange and lighthearted social media experiment, former CNN host Don Lemon was recently spotted knocking on New York City subway windows and showing commuters peculiar photos on his phone. The incident, which Lemon documented and shared on TikTok, has left viewers divided—some finding it amusing while others expressed concern over his behavior. The 15-second video, posted to his 1.2 million followers, shows Lemon approaching unsuspecting passengers at the bustling Times Square-42nd Street station on Thursday. His antics included displaying bizarre images, such as a photoshopped mashup of the donkey from the Shrek franchise and Sonic the Hedgehog, as well as a blue-tinted photo of himself. At one point, Lemon even playfully chased after a departing subway car, phone in hand, ensuring one passenger got a good look at his eccentric visuals.

Mixed Reactions from the Public and Social Media

While Lemon appeared to be thoroughly enjoying himself, laughing throughout the video, not everyone found the stunt endearing. Some of his followers expressed confusion or annoyance, with one user jokingly writing, “Don Lemon leave me alone I’m just trying to go to work.” Another commenter questioned the humor, asking, “What is this, is this supposed to be funny???” However, others noted that Lemon seemed happier and more carefree since his departure from CNN in April 2023. “He seems more happy since leaving CNN,” one user observed, while another remarked, “Don after CNN has been amazing.” The TikTok video has since amassed over 160,000 views and 15,000 likes, showcasing the polarizing nature of Lemon’s antics.

Don Lemon’s Career and Controversies

Before his infamous subway stunt, Lemon was a prominent figure at CNN, serving as both a primetime and morning anchor. However, his tenure at the network came to an abrupt end in April 2023 following a series of controversies. One notable incident involved Lemon making remarks about GOP presidential candidate Nikki Haley, suggesting she was not “in her prime” at the age of 51. The comment sparked widespread criticism, with many accusing him of sexism and ageism. Additionally, Lemon faced backlash for an alleged off-camera altercation with co-host Kaitlan Collins, which reportedly left the cast and crew unsettled. Lemon himself claimed to have been blindsided by his termination, stating that he learned of his firing through his agent and was never directly informed by CNN management.

Fallout with CNN and Elon Musk

In the aftermath of his departure from CNN, Lemon found himself in further controversy. He was briefly offered a show on Elon Musk’s X (formerly Twitter) platform, but the opportunity was short-lived. Musk canceled the show just hours after a test episode, criticizing Lemon’s approach as being too reminiscent of CNN’s traditional media style, which Musk argued was outdated and ineffective. Lemon later sued Musk, alleging that he was not compensated as promised. Despite these setbacks, Lemon has continued to build his personal brand as an independent media personality, recently launching his own podcast, The Don Lemon Show. His transition from a mainstream news anchor to a more unconventional, independent figure has been a subject of both curiosity and criticism.

Don Lemon’s Journey to Independence

Lemon’s decision to embrace a more unconventional approach to media has been met with mixed reactions. While some fans appreciate his newfound freedom and creativity, others have expressed skepticism about his methods. The subway stunt, for instance, has been interpreted by some as a playful attempt to connect with everyday people, while others see it as a misguided or attention-seeking gesture. Regardless of the intent, the incident highlights Lemon’s efforts to redefine himself outside the constraints of traditional media. His journey from a CNN anchor to an independent podcaster reflects a broader shift in the media landscape, where personalities are increasingly turning to alternative platforms to reach their audiences.

The Legacy of Don Lemon’s Career and Public Image

Don Lemon’s career has been marked by both significant achievements and considerable controversy. As a former CNN anchor, he played a prominent role in shaping the network’s programming and was known for his sharp commentary and provocative style. However, his recent antics and setbacks have raised questions about his future in the media industry. While some fans admire his resilience and willingness to take risks, others have criticized his judgment and approach to engaging with the public. Ultimately, Lemon’s subway stunt and his broader transition to independence serve as a reminder of the challenges and opportunities faced by media personalities in an ever-evolving digital age. Love him or hate him, Don Lemon continues to be a figure of conversation and curiosity.