Former CNN journalist Don Lemon walked the red carpet at the 2026 Grammy Awards in Los Angeles on Sunday, following his release from custody just days earlier. Lemon was taken into federal custody in connection with an incident in Minnesota, where anti-ICE protesters disrupted a church service in St. Paul. He was released on his own recognizance on January 30, without having to post bail.
Lemon attended the Grammy ceremony alongside his husband, Timothy Malone, appearing composed and confident amid the high-profile event. The incident that led to his arrest occurred on January 18, when protesters entered Cities Church in St. Paul, chanting in protest against one of the pastors who is reportedly affiliated with the local ICE field office. Lemon was reporting independently at the scene and shared footage and interviews on social media, clarifying that he was covering the event as a journalist and not participating in the protest.
Lemon faces federal charges, including conspiracy against religious freedom and attempts to injure individuals exercising their religious rights. In response to his release, Lemon stated, “I’ve been doing this work for the past 30 years—covering the news—and I will continue to do so. The First Amendment protects this work, and I will not be silenced.”
Attorney General Pam Bondi confirmed that Lemon, along with other journalists and participants, was arrested under federal authority due to concerns about potential violations of religious freedoms during the protest. Lemon emphasized that his reporting was conducted in a professional capacity and defended the role of journalists in covering contentious events, even when they involve civil demonstrations or protests.
In a brief statement outside the courthouse, Lemon reassured supporters and fellow journalists that he remained committed to accurate reporting. “I stand with all reporters who face challenges covering events of public interest,” he said. He is expected to appear in court as the legal process continues, while maintaining that his actions were fully protected under U.S. law.
This development comes amid heightened attention on protests targeting federal immigration policies and ongoing debates about press freedoms and civil rights in the United States. Lemon’s case highlights the legal tensions that can arise when journalists cover sensitive or politically charged events.
