Don Lemon's Journey on CNN Tonight

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CNN anchor Don Lemon has become a household name due to his sharp wit and incisive commentary during prime-time news programming. But what many viewers may not know about this accomplished journalist is the path that led him here.

Early Life & Career Beginnings

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Born in 1956, Donald John 'Don' Lemon Jr., grew up in an African-American family with a father who served as a navy chief and later worked for General Electric. His early life was marked by both privilege and challenges; despite facing racism at predominantly white private schools, his parents instilled within him the importance of education.

Lemon attended Morehouse College in Atlanta on a full scholarship before moving onto Howard University to earn an MA degree in broadcasting from its renowned School of Communications and Information Sciences. It was during this period that he discovered his true calling as a journalist.

Professional Breakthrough

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After graduating, Lemon started his career at various local television stations across the United States, eventually landing anchor positions at WRC-TV (NBC) in Washington D.C., where he stayed for nine years before making the move to CNN's Headline News channel.

At HLN, Don quickly established himself as a trusted and popular news personality through his engaging reporting style. His ability to break down complex stories into easily digestible segments earned him widespread recognition within both professional circles and among viewers at home.

CNN Tonight & Rise to Prominence

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In 2006, CNN saw an opportunity to revamp its prime-time lineup with a new host who could appeal to the network's growing liberal base. Enter Don Lemon - poached from his role as weekend anchor on Anderson Cooper's AC360° program at HLN.

Underneath his affable exterior lies a sharp-t tongued newsman not afraid to speak truth-to-power, often taking aim at figures within both major parties when he believes it necessary for the greater good of society. This refreshing approach quickly endeared him further among liberal viewers who appreciate honest reporting over sensationalism or spin doctoring.

Personal Life & Controversies

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Lemon has been openly gay since coming out in 2017, making history as one of few major television anchors to do so while still active on air at a top-tier network. His personal life has not always been without controversy however; he faced criticism from some quarters after comments made about police brutality during the Black Lives Matter protests were interpreted by some as insensitive.

Net Worth & Salary

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As one of CNN's highest paid anchors, Don Lemon commands an impressive salary rumored to be around $10 million per year. With additional income streams from book deals and speaking engagements, his net worth is estimated to exceed a staggering $30 million dollars making him one of the richest African-American television personalities in America today.

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From humble beginnings as an ambitious young journalist fighting for recognition within a competitive industry, Don Lemon has truly come full circle. Through hard work, determination - combined with an unwavering commitment to telling stories that need telling no matter how difficult they may be - he continues to cement his place at the forefront of American television journalism.

With CNN Tonight remaining one of cable news' most watched programs each night week-in-week-out under his astute leadership; it seems safe bet this affable yet tenacious anchor will remain a household name for years come.

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