Don Lemon to host seventh annual Native Son Awards

Former CNN anchor Don Lemon has landed a brand new internet hosting gig, nevertheless it’s not behind a information desk.

On June 16, Lemon will have fun Pleasure Month by internet hosting Emil Wilbekin’s seventh annual Native Son Awards at Barry Diller’s IAC constructing in New York, we’re informed.

“For this yr’s awards, we actually wished to shine a light-weight on those that are utilizing their platforms to carry visibility to all the gorgeous methods during which Black, queer males present up on the earth,” Wilbekin mentioned in a press release.

Lemon was one of many first to be honored by the awards, which goal to spotlight “the achievements of Black homosexual and queer males who’re leaders of their respective industries,” at its first gala in 2016.

“Having Don host this yr’s award seems like a full circle second for Native Son,” Wilbekin informed Web page Six.

“He is without doubt one of the most seen Black homosexual males in media and his presence reinforces the significance and influence of our neighborhood,” he mentioned.

The group stood in solidarity with Lemon when he was ousted from CNN in April, posting: “As one chapter closes, a new one will open. We thanks Don Lemon for talking fact to energy.”

Lemon has maintained a comparatively low profile since his ouster, telling Web page Six on the Time 100 gala that he plans to “take pleasure in my summer time, spend it on the seashore and have a good time.”

“That’s it!” he mentioned.

The awards present will even honor Patrik Ian-Polk, Tony nominee Jordan E. Cooper, Chester Algernal Gordon, Magnificence Bratton, James Cole Jr., Nicco Annan, Bishop O.C. Allen, Rashad Burgess, Jason Bolden and Adair Curtis.