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Don Lemon and Jemele Hill Say Stephen A. Smith Is ‘Problematic’ for Hosting ‘Certain’ People

Warren Squire
Warren Squire  |  2:45 AM on August 19, 2026

Sportscaster Stephen A. Smith recently received the National Black Journalists Association’s ‘Thumbs Down’ award. Smith drew the ire of the NABJ for a ‘recurring public pattern of disparaging public commentary directed at prominent black women across politics, sports and media.’ In other words, any criticism, real or perceived, against black women (Democrats) is not allowed because they’re black.

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Essentially, he’s being accused of race betrayal. Podcasters Don Lemon and Jemele Hill had a struggle session over Smith. It turns out, he has used his platform to help many black people in broadcasting and journalism over the years. Lemon and Hill don't know how to feel about that.

Here’s more. (WATCH)  

Jemele Hill and Don Lemon say Stephen A. Smith has become problematic because he's been hosting "certain" people and hanging out with them.

They feel that he is, in a way, betraying "black journalism."

This comes after the NABJ gave Smith its 'Thumbs Down' award, citing his commentary about black women, Jasmine Crockett being among them.

Lemon and Hill fret about Smith being ‘problematic’ because he shares his platform with people they don’t agree with politically. Heavens no! (WATCH)

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‘Stop him, he’s escaping to normalcy!’

Smith called out the hypocrisy of the ‘award’ because he knows he would never have received it if he talked negatively about conservative black women. He concludes that the NABJ is mad because he dared to challenge black female Democrats. (WATCH)

There would be no conversation, but likely praise for disparaging black female conservatives.

Posters noticed that for someone obsessed with blackness, Hill appears to be trying to be white.

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We're going to drop the ‘Sir’ from ‘Sir Charles’ until we see them side-by-side in the same room.

Commenters wonder what ‘black journalism’ is and how it’s determined who gets to decide if it is being properly practiced.

It’s niche writing that is not in demand. One would be a better, more versatile writer by ditching skin color as a criterion for journalism.

Posters say they respect Smith for stating his opinion instead of seeking approval from the NABJ and others.

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Smith is smart enough not to put himself in a box; he’s certainly not going to allow the NABJ, Lemon, or Hill to put him in one.