CNN's Don Lemon mocked by fans after network misses stroke of midnight on New Year's Eve due to star's NSFW performance
Emma Powell
Published Sep 28, 2026
CNN host Don Lemon has cause a stirred and is being mocked by fans after missing the stroke of midnight on New Year's Eve.
The famous anchor appeared distracted from his countdown duties while in New Orleans.
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In his Instagram Stories, Don, 56, seemed to be enjoying himself as he played the drums with his microphones and twerked with female stage performers.
Moments later, just before the strike of midnight, the CNN delivered a raunchy performance of the Juvenile song, Back That Azz Up.
The crowd chanted the song's title while Don mimicked the lyrics and threw beads across the stage- but completely missed when the clock hit midnight.
"That's how we start! You all ready for this countdown!" Don told the baffled crowd after 2023 had arrived.
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Viewers jumped online and quickly mocked the TV star for his live gaffe.
"Don had one job!" one frustrated person said.
Another viewer asked: "There’s a whole team of people who should have let Don know when the Countdown was supposed to start. Where were they?"
A third person joked: "It’s the most appropriately New Orleans way to welcome the new year.
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"Except that CNN wasn’t letting them drink. But otherwise, fully on brand."
One user wrote: "Don Lemon: That’s my jam. Back That Azz up," along with laughing emojis.
A commentator chimed in: "This would not have happened if Don was buzzed. Bring the booze back, CNN."
CNN chairman/CEO Chris Licht prohibited the New Year's Eve Live hosts from drinking during the broadcast.
'TOUGH FOR YOU'
Just weeks ago, Don was in a much somber mood when he announced the death of beloved CNN investigative reporter Drew Griffin.
While live on the air, the TV personality was overcome with emotions and broke down in tears as he shared the tragic news.
“I’m sorry,” Don said to his co-host Kaitlan Collins who offered to console him.
“I know this is tough for you. You said he was one of the first people you met at CNN," Kaitlin shared.
Don apologized again to his co-star and took off his glasses to wipe his tears away.
Drew worked with the network’s investigative unit for nearly 20 years before his death.
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Don's beloved co-worker passed away following a long battle with cancer.
During his time at CNN, Drew received several honors while winning an Emmy and Peabody award for his work.
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