Hey there, if you’ve been searching for the latest on Don Lemon girlfriend or wondering about his love life, here’s the real scoop: the former CNN anchor is happily married to his longtime partner, Tim Malone. No girlfriend here—Don came out as gay years ago, and his relationship with Tim has been one of the most inspiring stories in media circles. As of early 2026, they’re still going strong, even amid Don’s recent headlines involving protests and legal matters. Let’s dive into who Tim is, how they met, and why their bond keeps capturing attention.
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How Don Lemon and Tim Malone’s Love Story Began
It all started back in 2015 at a casual spot in the Hamptons—Almond Restaurant in Bridgehampton, to be exact. They hit it off right away, but didn’t make things official until the summer of 2016. Don, who had publicly shared his journey in his 2011 memoir Transparent, found someone who truly got him.
- They went public in a sweet way: a New Year’s Eve kiss on CNN in 2017-2018 that melted hearts.
- Tim proposed in April 2019 in the most adorable fashion—using their dogs’ collars with tags reading “Daddy, will you marry Papa?”
- After an eight-year relationship (and navigating Don’s high-profile career), they finally tied the knot on April 6, 2024, at Fifth Avenue Presbyterian Church in New York City.
The wedding was classic yet personal: 140 guests, officiated by friend and U.S. Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield, with a New Orleans-style second line parade to Ralph Lauren’s Polo Bar (their first-date spot). Don later said it felt like a dream he wasn’t sure could happen growing up.
Who Is Tim Malone? A Quick Look at Don Lemon’s Husband
Tim Malone isn’t just “Don Lemon’s partner”—he’s a successful real estate agent in New York City, specializing in luxury properties in Manhattan and the Hamptons through firms like Douglas Elliman. He’s known for handling high-end listings and bringing that grounded, supportive energy to their life together.
Here’s a handy table with key details about their relationship:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Partner’s Name | Tim Malone |
| Profession | Real Estate Agent (Luxury Properties) |
| Age Difference | About 18 years (Tim is younger) |
| Met | 2015 at Almond Restaurant, Hamptons |
| Started Dating | 2016 |
| Engagement | April 2019 (via dogs’ collars) |
| Marriage Date | April 6, 2024, Fifth Avenue Presbyterian Church, NYC |
| Wedding Guests | 140, including celebs like Alec Baldwin, Luann de Lesseps, CNN colleagues |
| Shared Homes | Harlem apartment, Sag Harbor on Long Island |
| Fur Babies | Three dogs (they’ve joked about “family planning” with pets first) |
| Current Status (2026) | Happily married, supportive through ups and downs |
Tim has been Don’s rock, especially after Don’s 2023 exit from CNN. Sources say the change actually brought them closer, giving more time for their life together in New York and the Hamptons.
Life Together: From Hamptons Escapes to Facing Challenges Side by Side
The couple loves keeping things real despite the spotlight. During the pandemic, they hunkered down in their Sag Harbor home, calling it a cozy escape rather than fancy. Tim once noted their differences—age gap, backgrounds, racial dynamics—but said being gay was never the biggest hurdle; it was more about adjusting to public life.
They’ve talked openly about family values and even future plans (Don mentioned in 2024 interviews they’re thinking about kids someday, but their three dogs keep them busy for now). In 2026, with Don’s recent arrest tied to covering an anti-ICE protest in Minnesota (he’s out on release and fighting the charges), Tim has been right there—holding hands leaving court, showing quiet strength.
Their story highlights love that withstands career shifts, public scrutiny, and everything in between.
Conclusion: A Modern Love That Inspires
Don Lemon and Tim Malone’s journey—from a chance Hamptons meet-cute to a beautiful 2024 wedding and beyond—is proof that real connection wins out. In a world obsessed with headlines, their commitment stands out as genuine, supportive, and full of joy. Whether navigating fame, family dreams, or tough moments in 2026, they’re in it together.
If you’re curious about celebrity relationships that feel authentic, this one delivers. Here’s to more happy chapters for Don and Tim!
Updated: January 31, 2026