Don Lemon expresses that the misogyny accusations surrounding his CNN firing were extremely painful.

Don Lemon, the former CNN host, expressed that the accusations that led to his dismissal were "painful" and he wished he had the opportunity to "defend himself more."

On Thursday, USA Today interviewed Lemon about his new memoir and the reasons behind his firing from CNN in April 2023, which he claimed was made without his direct knowledge.

"I didn't lose my job," he remarked. "I was let go."

Lemon had been embroiled in several scandals, including a controversial statement about Nikki Haley's age.

He told USA Today about the chaos he felt from the backlash.

"Lemon stated that individuals can use things as a predicate for wanting to make changes in organizations. In hindsight, when one is in the midst of a storm, it can be overwhelming and cloud one's judgment. However, Lemon wished that they had the opportunity to defend themselves more, but contractually, they were unable to do so. Lemon hopes that people will understand this."

He argued that his remarks about Haley were aimed at challenging ageism and hypocrisy in society, particularly in the way women have been treated for centuries.

Lemon stated that it was very hurtful for people to think that he was a sexist or misogynist, regardless of the label.

At the time, a CNN insider claimed that Lemon had been "nasty" to Kaitlan Collins, allegedly interrupting her and causing her to become visibly upset.

Before his dismissal, a report from Variety stated that Lemon displayed misogynistic and "diva-like" behavior, including sending threatening text messages to a female coworker.

The story, which contains fabricated anecdotes and lacks evidence, is entirely based on unverified, unsubstantiated 15-year-old gossip. It's astonishing and disheartening that Variety would be so careless.

The misogyny accusations from the report were "extremely painful," according to Lemon.

Lemon stated that the incident was one of the most hurtful things to ever happen to him because it was the opposite of his true self, and people using it as a narrative was very painful.

He maintained to USA Today that he has consistently shown respect towards women, especially in the workplace.

He stated that he would attend meetings, whether at work or in other locations, with men present, and they would do as they pleased. Before the meeting ended, he would consistently ask, "Ladies, would you like to share your thoughts?" and they would always have something to contribute, as the men were dominating the meetings. Additionally, if a new female member joined the network, he would introduce her on the show.

Lemon maintained that his digital program "The Don Lemon Show" demonstrated that individuals can overcome their past.

"Lemon stated that America's beauty lies in the ability to reinvent oneself. As long as one does not cling to the past or their mistakes, there is always an opportunity for growth and reciprocity."

On Wednesday, Lemon faced criticism for making fun of a video featuring Melania Trump discussing the assassination attempt on her husband.