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Part 4: Don Lemon on Telling Bill Cosby Accuser She Didn't Have to Pleasure Him
Part 2: Don Lemon on Church Telling Him Being Gay is "Abomination", 1st Time He Had Sex with Girl
Part 1: Don Lemon on Being Sexually Abused at 6 by Older Boy Until He Threatened to "Bite It Off"

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Don Lemon's path to becoming a prominent CNN anchor was anything but straightforward. Initially aiming to follow in his attorney father's footsteps, Lemon pivoted towards journalism after being inspired by Jean West, a TV role model who reminded him of his family. Transitioning from economics to journalism at Louisiana State University, Lemon faced skepticism from his professors, which eventually led him to Brooklyn College for formal journalism studies.

Post-graduation, Lemon undertook various journalism roles across the country, including stints in Birmingham, Alabama, and Philadelphia. His early career included underpaid positions and additional side jobs, like working as an office manager, before advancing to higher roles at news stations. He became proficient in multiple newsroom functions, culminating in prestigious awards. Lemon's personal journey also included significant milestones such as moving to New York with limited resources, finding early career struggles, and his eventual public coming-out story.