Don Lemon responds to Nicki Minaj after ICE protest coverage backlash

Don Lemon criticizes Nicki Minaj’s explicit social media attack after she slammed his reporting

Don Lemon has publicly pushed back against Nicki Minaj after the rapper criticized his recent reporting on protests connected to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), using language that drew backlash.

The dispute began after Lemon, 59, covered demonstrations in St. Paul, Minnesota, over the weekend. The protests reportedly took place outside a church attended by an individual described as an acting field office director for ICE in the area. Following the coverage, Minaj reacted on social media with an angry post directed at the former CNN anchor, using an explicit insult and accusing him of bias, while calling for the ICE official involved to be jailed.

Lemon addressed Minaj’s comments during an appearance on the I’ve Had It Podcast on January 19, where co-host Jennifer Welch read the post aloud. Responding in real time, Lemon criticized Minaj’s remarks and questioned her motives, saying she misrepresents Christian values and accusing her of exploiting communities that have supported her career.

According to Lemon, Minaj has shown disregard for both Black and LGBTQ+ communities, which he described as key segments of her fan base. He added that he has never been a supporter of her music and stated he would continue to distance himself from her work following the incident.

The exchange has added to broader conversations around celebrity commentary, political protests, and the responsibilities of public figures when addressing sensitive issues online.

Lemon, who left CNN in 2023, married his longtime partner Tim Malone in 2024. Neither Minaj nor her representatives have publicly responded to Lemon’s remarks since his podcast appearance.