CNN+ to air weekly talker from Don Lemon

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CNN has tapped Don Lemon to host a new weekly talk show on CNN+.

“The Don Lemon Show” will include a studio audience and take on the format of a talk show with a focus on the most “talkable” stories of the week, a new genre for Lemon — but one that also still ties into his journalism roots.

“I’ve been enamored by talk shows since I was a child. I’d hide the remote and made my siblings watch Johnny Carson. I wanted to be him,” said Lemon in a statement.

“And then I discovered Phil Donahue and it all clicked. ‘Caller, you’re on the air.’ A talk show centered around news, current events and everyday provocative topics — I watched every single day! Same with Oprah. Time now for this generation’s version of that great tradition. This is my opportunity to dig deeply into the topics I’m passionate about and not limited to the news of the day.”

CNN did not announce a debut date or schedule for Lemon’s show. CNN+ also does not have a debut date or pricing information.

“Don Lemon” will, however, be available exclusively on the streaming platform.

Lemon is currently the anchor of “Don Lemon Tonight” on CNN.

Fellow CNN anchor Anderson Cooper tried his hand at a syndicated talk show in 2011. “Anderson,” which became known as “Anderson Live” later in its run, lasted only two seasons.

Cooper kept his job at CNN while also appearing on the talker.