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Elon Musk and X Move to Dismiss Don Lemon’s Lawsuit Over Canceled Partnership

By Nagasunder in Business News, posted September 26, 2024

Elon Musk and X have asked a federal judge to dismiss a lawsuit filed by former CNN anchor Don Lemon, alleging fraud over a canceled partnership on the social media platform.

The legal filing took place in a San Francisco federal court, where Musk argued Lemon’s claims were unfounded. Musk said there was never a formal contract for their partnership.

The Dispute: No Written Agreement

Musk contended that he did nothing wrong by allegedly telling Lemon there was "no need" for a written contract. He promised him "full authority and control" over his work on the platform, even if they disagreed with his views.

Musk's legal team argued that it was unreasonable for Lemon to rely on this informal statement for a multimillion-dollar partnership.

According to Musk, the collapse of their relationship was the result of Lemon's actions. He specifically cited an “invasive and inappropriate interview” conducted by Lemon in March.

The Contentious Interview and Its Aftermath

Lemon's interview with Musk covered sensitive topics such as content moderation, hate speech, and Musk's personal drug use, which Musk's team argues contributed to the breakdown of their potential partnership.

X has also supported Musk’s stance, stating that the dissolution of the partnership might have led to "upset feelings" but did not warrant a legal victory for Lemon. They criticized Lemon's interview as "invasive and charged."

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Lemon's Response and Legal Demands

Lemon’s attorney, Carney Shegerian, countered Musk’s claims, stating:

“X's response confirms the company terminated its contract with Don after he asked interview questions that Musk didn't like.”

Shegerian emphasized Lemon was courted by X for months to help revive declining ad sales. He claimed the lawsuit reflects Musk's ego rather than the actual facts of the case.

Lemon is seeking a minimum of $1.5 million, plus a share of advertising revenue for the first year. This could potentially amount to millions more for driving followers and advertisers to X.

Musk’s Defense and Jurisdictional Argument

Musk's legal team has also argued the case does not belong in California, as Musk is a resident of Texas and Lemon lives in New York.

They have suggested the case could alternatively be moved to Texas if not dismissed entirely.

Don Lemon's Career

Don Lemon was a prominent figure at CNN for 17 years and became one of the network's most recognizable personalities.

However, he was fired in April 2023 after making comments about women and then-Republican presidential candidate Nikki Haley that were widely viewed as sexist. Lemon later issued an apology.

Future Outlook: A Legal Battle Unfolds

This high-profile lawsuit highlights the ongoing friction between prominent media figures and tech industry moguls.

Musk has requested dismissal but Lemon has shown a determination to pursue the case. This legal battle could set a precedent for how verbal agreements and public disagreements play out in court.

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