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Don Lemon Sues Elon Musk and X for $35 Million Over Canceled $1.5 Million Deal, Alleging Fraud

Aug 1, 2024, 05:46 PM

Former CNN anchor Don Lemon has filed a lawsuit against Elon Musk and his social media platform X, alleging fraud and breach of contract. Lemon claims that Musk agreed to pay him $1.5 million annually to produce shows exclusively on X, but the deal fell apart, and Musk refused to pay. The lawsuit also accuses Musk and X of negligent misrepresentation, misappropriation of Lemon’s name and likeness, and breach of express contract. Despite the absence of a signed formal contract, Lemon asserts that Musk reassured him there was no need for paperwork. The complaint details additional incentives, including $500,000 in advertising credits and a share of revenue from referrals. Lemon is seeking $35 million in damages, citing humiliation and mental and physical pain. The deal reportedly collapsed after a contentious interview, and Lemon was initially convinced to join X by CEO Linda Yaccarino. Musk responded, calling Lemon's demands 'impressively insane.'