CNN has dismissed longtime host Don Lemon, the news anchor announced via Twitter on Monday, adding that he was "stunned" by the decision and was not notified of his dismissal by the network.

"I was informed this morning by my agent that I have been terminated by CNN. I am stunned," Lemon said.

"After 17 years at CNN, I would have thought that someone in management would have had the decency to tell me directly. At no time was I ever given any indication that I would not be able to continue to do the work I have loved at the network," he added.

CNN announced in its statement that the network and Lemon had parted ways. According to the statement, Lemon was offered the opportunity to confer with the network's management, but he stated on his Twitter account. The network characterized Lemon's account as "inaccurate."

Neither statement explained Lemon's exit.

In 2006, Lemon started at CNN. He hosted the prime-time "Don Lemon Tonight" program for over eight years. He rose to prominence during Donald Trump's presidency for his characterization of the former Republican president as a "racist."

Trump applauded Lemon's decision to leave CNN. The former president stated on his Truth Social platform, "My only question is, WHAT TOOK THEM SO LONG?"

Earlier this year, Lemon was heavily criticized for remarks made on air during a discussion of Republican presidential candidate Nikki Haley's proposal that those over 75 who wish to serve in the White House must demonstrate mental competence.

He stated that Haley was not in her prime and that a woman's heyday is in her 20s, 30s, or "maybe even 40s." He subsequently expressed regret for his sexist remarks.

In response to Lemon's departure from CNN on Monday, Haley tweeted, "A great day for women everywhere."

Monday morning, Lemon hosted his "CNN This Morning" program, which he began moderating a few months ago.

CNN's chief executive officer, Chris Licht, stated that the program hosted by Don Lemon, Kaitlan Collins, and Poppy Harlow will continue and that CNN is "committed to its success."

Warner Bros Discovery Inc owns CNN.