CNN anchor Don Lemon has claimed he was fired by the network for refusing to invite "liars and bigots" onto his news programmes.
The journalist said he fought for honest reporting during his time with CNN, something he said was part of his "journalistic duty".
Fans were left shocked when the network announced Don's departure back in April and he's now opened up about the reason behind his axe in his first sit-down interview since the incident.
The 57-year-old said it was his "responsibility" to tell the truth and "stand up for what is right".
Don said his experience conflicted with the since-ousted chief executive Chris Licht's plan of including more conservative voices on CNN.
"I don't believe in platforming liars and bigots, insurrectionists and election deniers and putting them on the same footing as people who are telling the truth; people who are fighting for what's right," he said.
"I think that would be a dereliction of journalistic duty to do those sorts of things," Don told ABC24 Memphis.
Speaking about his plans for the future, Don said he "isn't going to force anything" and that he is still "figuring out" his next move.
CNN announced they had "parted ways" with Don two months ago, after he spent 17 years with the network.
In a statement they said: "Don will forever be a part of the CNN family, and we thank him for his contributions over the past 17 years.
"We wish him well and will be cheering him on in his future endeavors."
Don had a reputation as a fiery political commentator during his time as a prime-time anchor.
However, he began to lose support inside the network after making remarks in February about women and ageing which were widely received as sexist.
He later apologised and agreed to undertake a corporate training programme to address his on-air behaviour.
CNN have been contacted for comment.
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