By: Janice Malone
Whether he’s reporting the news or interviewing some of the world’s leading movers and shakers, CNN news anchor Don Lemon is a renaissance man who’s at the tip-top of his game. When he’s not handling the business of news at the CNN anchor desk, Don is often making headlines in his own right. It seems that Mr. Lemon and his views are an ongoing source of news among his fellow headline hungry media colleagues. Early last month, Don was critical about Saturday Night Live’s (SNL) lack of diversity in their cast members. During his commentary segment on the “Tom Joyner Show,” his views made headlines, which he chats about later. Here, Don Lemon will share even more of his views about Black History Month, Saturday Night Live, and more.
TRIBUNE: What does Black History Month mean to you?
D. LEMON: “It means so much. It’s a time to stop and reflect on the accomplishments of what so many people of color have done and gone through.”
TRIBUNE: There are some people, including African-Americans, who think Black History Month should no longer be celebrated because we now have a Black President, along with other major African-Americans who are extremely successful. What do you think of this?
D. LEMON: “I think that’s ridiculous. I think the accomplishments of African-Americans should be celebrated throughout the year. I don’t see anything wrong with remembering our history and the legacy of African-Americans who have come before us. We have all of these months of remembering all kinds of things, so what’s wrong with remembering African-American achievements? We’re a part of American history. We helped to build this country too. It’s absolutely the right thing to do in celebrating Black History Month.”
TRIBUNE: When you were in grade school did you participate in a lot of Black History Month programs?
D. LEMON: “Yes, I did. (he laughs) I went to an all Black Catholic high school, so it was always African-American History Month. I was in several plays. For some reason, my classmates usually selected me to be on stage. Sometimes I had just a small part, other times I had the lead role.”
TRIBUNE: To further speak of acting, last month you were very vocal about SNL’s lack of diversity among their cast members. They’ve since hired African-American comedic actress Sasheer Zamata. What did you think of her debut performance?
D. LEMON: “I thought she was great! She was funny, engaging, and nice to look at. I was very proud of her. But I know there are people who are saying she got the job only because she’s Black. I think people should judge her on her talent, on how funny she is.”
TRIBUNE: You were quoted as saying in your radio commentary that, “She (Sasheer) will have to be a lot funnier than she is Black…” I totally understand what you’re saying but for some reason a lot of people didn’t seem to get it. Can you again clarify what you meant?
D. LEMON: “I think it’s kind of dumb. I can’t believe people didn’t get it. What I’m saying is that Sasheer is going to be judged ultimately, by how funny she is on Saturday Night Live. On drama shows the actors are judged on how dramatic their acting is with a character. SNL is a comedy show. It’s about the cast members being funny, whether they’re Black or any other race. One’s color is not the issue. It’s about how funny you are and Sasheer is very funny.”
TRIBUNE: Would you host Saturday Night Live if they asked you?
D. LEMON: “Yes, are you kidding me! And I think that I would do a darn good job at it too.”
TRIBUNE: I totally agree with you on that one. Who would you like to have as your musical guest if you’re the host?
D. LEMON: “I know some of these great artists have passed away but if it were possible, I’d like a little Whitney Houston, some Donny Hathaway, and some Amy Winehouse. I like singers who can open up their mouths and great music comes forth. So those classic, amazing soul singers like Aretha Franklin really work for me. I also like The Ohio Players and those classic rockers like Led Zepplin too.”
TRIBUNE; What is your opinion regarding U.S. Presidents and other high-ranking political figures appearing on late night television talk shows?
D. LEMON: “The President is a person who’s a multi-dimensional person just like other politicians and other people are. I think it’s nice that we can see all facets of their personalities. I think the President should be allowed and accepted, to go on late night TV shows. I see nothing wrong with it. The President is a very funny and talented guy. Who knows, maybe he might sing on one of those late night shows, like when Bill Clinton played the saxophone.”
TRIBUNE: A Fisk University student wants me to ask you who’s been your toughest person to interview, so far?
D. LEMON: “Oh my gosh, it’s always a politician. But I’d say one of my toughest interviews was with Tea Party member Rand Hall (Kentucky Republican). He kept trying to skirt my questions by giving me the standard politician-style answers. When he quickly realized I wasn’t going to stand for that, he became a little irate and later succumbed. But he later told me that he likes doing interviews with me because his social media numbers greatly increase whenever we talk. So he now answers my questions more directly and that’s all I wanted.”