Roy Wood Jr. Declines Tequila Shot on CNN, Jokes About Don Lemon’s Firing

The comedian referenced the controversial 2023 dismissal of former CNN anchor Don Lemon during the network’s New Year’s Eve broadcast.

Roy Wood Jr. turned down a tequila shot offered by Andy Cohen during CNN's New Year’s Eve broadcast, citing Don Lemon’s firing as the reason.
Wood joked, 'The last Black man to drink on this network got fired,' in reference to Lemon, who was let go by CNN in 2023 after 17 years.
Don Lemon’s termination followed controversies over his on-air comments, including remarks about Nikki Haley being 'past her prime,' which were widely criticized.
CNN’s Anderson Cooper and Andy Cohen did not respond to Wood’s comment, continuing the segment with other guests who accepted the drinks.
Wood later shared the viral moment on social media, humorously reiterating his decision to avoid drinking during the broadcast.