Elon Musk Cancels Partnership for Don Lemon's X Show

Elon Musk has ended X's planned partnership with former CNN anchor Don Lemon. This decision comes shortly after Lemon conducted an interview with the tech entrepreneur. Musk, a self-proclaimed champion of free speech, cited a lack of authenticity in the interview as a reason for the cancellation.

Lemon asserts that no restrictions were placed on the interview, and a wide range of topics were covered. Musk, however, maintains that the conversation seemed heavily influenced by Lemon's former CNN president, Jeff Zucker.

Lemon released a statement emphasizing his initial enthusiasm for the project: "Elon publicly encouraged me to join X with a new show, saying I would have his "full support," and that his "digital town square is for all." He and his team pursued the deal in numerous conversations and made significant commitments about the support X would provide for the show. I made the decision to work with them in a unique partnership that I believed would ultimately assure that my work would be available to the most people in the largest possible venue. I took Elon and his management team's word that they, for the first time, were interested in working directly with new and diverse voices.”

Despite the cancellation, Lemon plans to release the interview on YouTube, podcast platforms, and as the premiere episode of The Don Lemon Show on X on March 18th. X's corporate account clarified that while creators are free to publish on the platform, the network reserves the right to make decisions regarding commercial partnerships.

Lemon expressed his expectation that the partnership agreement will be honored. A spokesperson for The Don Lemon Show indicated a willingness to pursue legal action if necessary.