Don Lemon, former CNN anchor and current independent podcast host, is scheduled to speak at the On Air Fest podcast conference in Brooklyn this month. This appearance follows his recent arrest by federal agents for alleged interference during a religious service at a protest. Lemon maintains his innocence, stating he "will not be silenced" and awaits his court date. The conference, known for exploring the evolving media landscape, provides a prominent platform for Lemon to address his perspective on independent media.
Renowned Journalist Don Lemon Confirmed for On Air Fest Amidst Legal Proceedings
Brooklyn, New York – February 4, 2026 – Don Lemon, the widely recognized former CNN anchor and host of "The Don Lemon Show," has officially confirmed his participation in the prestigious 2026 On Air Fest podcast conference. This eagerly anticipated announcement was made by the event organizers, On Air Presents, just days after Lemon's arrest by federal authorities.
On January 29, 2026, in the vibrant city of Los Angeles, Mr. Lemon was taken into custody by federal agents. He faces charges of interfering with a religious service during a protest concerning Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in Minnesota. Following his arrest, Lemon emphatically declared, "I will not be silenced," expressing his intention to vigorously defend himself in court. His next court appearance is slated for February 9, 2026, in Minneapolis.
The On Air Fest, an annual gathering celebrating the art and business of podcasting, will unfold in the culturally rich neighborhood of Williamsburg, Brooklyn. The event spans three distinct venues: the elegant Wythe Hotel, the modern Arlo Williamsburg hotel, and the dynamic XX Venue. Mr. Lemon's session is scheduled for February 25, 2026, from 12:00 PM to 12:45 PM, in the grand ballroom of the Arlo Williamsburg. During this session, he is expected to engage in a forthright discussion on the rapidly changing media landscape and the burgeoning rise of independent media platforms, alongside the insightful comedian Gianmarco Soresi.
The conference boasts an impressive roster of speakers and performers, including esteemed personalities such as Wyclef Jean, Malcolm Gladwell, Alec Baldwin, Roxane Gay, Pablo Torre, Eric Andre, Sydnee Washington, Marie Faustin from "Mess," Seth Meyers, Josh Meyers, Hrishikesh Hirway (creator and host of "Song Exploder"), Preeti Varathan (head of ESPN's 30 for 30 Audio), Audie Cornish of CNN, and former NPR host Ari Shapiro.
The 2026 On Air Fest will commence with the Ambies podcast awards ceremony on February 23, followed by the Bloomberg Podcast Business Summit on February 24. The main programming, running from February 25 to February 26, will feature an eclectic mix of talks, captivating performances, innovative exhibitions, engaging panels, interactive events, and live podcast tapings. Tickets for a one-day pass begin at $260.05.
On Air Presents, the creative studio and events company behind the festival, first launched On Air Fest in 2018 and now successfully produces festivals in both Brooklyn and Los Angeles.
The confirmation of Don Lemon's speaking engagement at the On Air Fest, especially in the wake of his recent legal challenges, underscores the conference's commitment to fostering dialogue on critical issues within the media industry. It also highlights the growing prominence of independent media voices and the dynamic shifts occurring in how news and commentary are produced and consumed. This event offers a unique opportunity for attendees to hear directly from a figure who is at the forefront of these transformations, providing insights into the challenges and opportunities facing journalists and content creators in an increasingly complex landscape.