Don Lemon launches 24/7 streaming channel on Byron Allen’s Local Now

Byron Allen welcomed the addition to Local Now as Lemon expands his independent media operation with round-the-clock programming.

Don Lemon is expanding his independent media footprint, bringing his news and commentary programming to a dedicated streaming channel available on Local Now, Prime Video, and Fire TV.

The Don Lemon Channel debuted Oct. 26, offering viewers a 24/7 destination for news, politics and cultural commentary as the country heads into the final stretch before the Nov. 3 midterm elections.

The channel is being distributed and operated in partnership with Swerve TV, adding another platform for the former CNN anchor, who has continued building his audience through digital media since leaving the network in 2023.

“People are tired of being talked down to and fed talking points,” Lemon said, according to TVNewsCheck’s report on the channel’s launch. “They want somebody willing to ask the hard questions and say what needs to be said.”

Byron Allen, chairman and CEO of Allen Media Group (parent company of theGrio), which operates Local Now, welcomed the addition as part of the platform’s broader news offerings.

“Don Lemon is one of the most trusted and compelling voices in news, and we’re proud to bring The Don Lemon Channel to Local Now,” Allen said.

He added that Local Now is home to “approximately 400 local and national news channels,” arguing that the addition of independent perspectives alongside established news sources strengthens the platform’s appeal.

The channel’s programming lineup includes “Hot Topics,” a daily live call-in show airing at 10 a.m. ET, and “Lemon LIVE,” which airs at 5 p.m. ET. Other offerings include “Lemon Drops,” “Best of the Week,” “Don on the Scene” and “The Lemon Vault.”

The channel will also feature programming from independent creators and media personalities, including “The Monique Pressley Show,” “Josh the Progressive,” former Capitol Police officer Michael Fanone and Dr. Frita.

For election night, Lemon plans to broadcast live coverage from 5 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. ET on Nov. 3, or until major races are called. He will be based at Blondies in New York, joined by independent creators, special guests and watch parties from around the country.

The launch marks another step in Lemon’s effort to build a multiplatform media operation centered on his reporting and commentary, while giving viewers another option for following the news beyond traditional television networks.