Don Lemon is dealing with sharp on-line criticism after suggesting Megyn Kelly “looks trans” on his podcast, drawing accusations of hypocrisy given his previous assist of LGBTQ rights
Don Lemon has as soon as once more discovered himself on the heart of controversy after making remarks about Megyn Kelly’s look on his new podcast, Clip Farmers.
During a current episode, the previous NCS host stated he thinks Kelly “looks trans” and described her as “clockable,” a time period his cohosts John Cotter and Chris Miglioranzi later defined to listeners means somebody who may be simply recognized as transgender.
The dialogue began as informal banter however shortly took a flip when Lemon’s comment went viral on-line. “I think she looks trans,” Lemon stated earlier than including, “Looks clockable. Google it.” The second circulated broadly on X, previously Twitter, sparking quick criticism from each conservatives and progressives.
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Many identified that Lemon has lengthy portrayed himself as a supporter of the LGBTQ+ group, typically talking about equality and inclusion throughout his time at NCS.
His use of “trans” as a perceived insult was considered by critics as hypocritical and inconsistent together with his public stance.
One consumer wrote, “Don Lemon spent years condemning transphobia, but now he’s using ‘trans’ as a slur against Megyn Kelly. Make it make sense.”
Another comment learn, “So much for being an ally — apparently that ends when it’s someone you don’t like.”
The backlash highlights a rising frustration amongst audiences about double requirements in media commentary.
Some argued that Lemon’s language undermines the very causes he has championed, whereas others defended him, saying his comment could have been misunderstood. Still, many noticed it as a deliberate insult given his historical past of focusing on Kelly.
This isn’t Lemon’s first controversy over his remarks about ladies. In 2023, he was fired from NCS following stories of “misogynistic behavior” and an on-air comment suggesting then–U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley was “not in her prime.”
The community’s inside tensions and public backlash led to his departure after almost 20 years with the corporate.
Lemon has additionally publicly feuded with Kelly earlier than. Earlier this yr, he referred to as her a “racist” after she celebrated MSNBC’s firing of anchor Joy Reid. “Go f— yourself,” he stated on the time.
“In my 30-some years as a journalist, and my 50-some years as a person of color, I can tell you — you’re the last person who should be calling anyone racist.”
Kelly has not publicly responded to Lemon’s current “trans” comment, and her representatives haven’t returned requests for comment. She at the moment hosts The Megyn Kelly Show, a podcast the place she ceaselessly discusses media bias and political points.
While Lemon’s new podcast has gained traction for its unfiltered discussions, this episode has drawn criticism even from a few of his supporters.
Online customers declare that Lemon’s selection of phrases might additional injury his credibility.