Post Updated: Thursday, October 15, 2026
Don Lemon, the veteran journalist and former CNN anchor now known for his independent work and The Don Lemon Show, has long been open about his personal life. Since coming out as gay in his 2011 memoir Transparent, he has spoken candidly about identity, relationships, and finding lasting partnership. Today that partnership is with his husband, Tim Malone. The two married in 2024 after years of dating and remain a steady presence in each other’s lives amid Lemon’s high-profile career.
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How Don Lemon and Tim Malone Met and Fell in Love
Lemon and Malone first crossed paths in 2015 at Almond restaurant in Bridgehampton in the Hamptons. They began dating the following year. Their connection grew quietly at first before becoming more public. By 2017 the relationship was openly acknowledged, and Lemon later described finding “love on a two-way street.”
Malone proposed on his own birthday, April 6, 2019, in a memorable way that involved their dogs. The couple marked the fifth anniversary of that engagement by marrying on the same date in 2024. The ceremony took place at Fifth Avenue Presbyterian Church in New York City with about 140 guests. It was officiated by then-U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Linda Thomas-Greenfield. The event blended tradition, personal meaning, and celebration of their shared life.
Who Is Tim Malone?
Tim Malone was born on April 6, 1984, in Water Mill, New York, and grew up on Long Island. He attended Southampton High School and later Boston College. Early in his career he worked in production and sales roles at NBC before moving into brand partnerships at Billboard. He later established himself as a successful New York City real estate agent specializing in luxury properties.
Outside of work, Malone is an avid runner who has completed the Boston Marathon and the New York City Marathon multiple times. He and Lemon share their homes in Harlem and Sag Harbor with three rescue dogs—Boomer, Barkley, and GusGus—who frequently appear in the couple’s social media posts and family moments.
Their Life Together and Public Support
Lemon has repeatedly described Malone as his “backbone” and “ride or die.” In interviews he has credited his husband’s steady presence through career highs, the 2023 departure from CNN, and more recent challenges. Malone has largely stayed out of the media spotlight but has publicly stood by Lemon, including during high-visibility moments such as red-carpet appearances and family support in difficult times.
Key aspects of their relationship include:
- A nearly decade-long partnership built on mutual respect and shared values
- An 18-year age difference that they have navigated successfully
- A blended household centered on their dogs and private life away from constant cameras
- Public celebrations of milestones while keeping many everyday details private
Quick Facts About Don Lemon and Tim Malone
Detail Information Husband’s Name Tim Malone Born April 6, 1984 (Water Mill, New York) Profession Real estate agent (luxury properties) Relationship Start Dating since 2016 (met 2015) Engagement April 6, 2019 Wedding Date April 6, 2024 Wedding Venue Fifth Avenue Presbyterian Church, NYC Shared Pets Three rescue dogs: Boomer, Barkley, GusGus Notable Interests Running (marathons), travel
Conclusion
Don Lemon’s husband, Tim Malone, represents a quiet but powerful source of stability in a very public life. From their Hamptons meeting to a meaningful church wedding five years after their engagement, the couple has built a partnership grounded in support, shared routines, and genuine affection. As Lemon continues his independent journalism and media work in 2026, Malone remains a consistent presence both privately and, when needed, publicly.
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