Anderson Cooper shocks viewers by leaving 60 Minutes after 20 years: Here’s why he’s walking away now
Pictured: Anderson Cooper, 60 MINUTES Correspondent. Photo: Michele Crowe/CBS ©2023 CBS Broadcasting, Inc. All Rights Reserved
Veteran journalist Anderson Cooper is stepping away from 60 Minutes after nearly 20 years as a correspondent, marking the end of an era for one of America’s most respected news magazines.
The 57-year-old anchor confirmed he will not renew his contract with CBS News, citing family as the primary reason for his departure. His exit comes during a period of leadership changes and editorial scrutiny within the network.
Cooper’s decision closes a chapter that began in the 2006–2007 season, when he joined the iconic broadcast while continuing his work at CNN.
Why Anderson Cooper Is Leaving 60 Minutes
In a statement, Cooper described his tenure at the program as “one of the great honors” of his career. However, he said balancing dual roles at CNN and CBS has become more challenging as his children grow older.
“For nearly twenty years, I’ve been able to balance my jobs at CNN and CBS,” Cooper said. “But I have little kids now and I want to spend as much time with them as possible.”
Cooper is father to two young sons, Wyatt and Sebastian, whom he co-parents with former partner Benjamin Maisani. The anchor has previously spoken about prioritizing family life while maintaining a demanding career in broadcast journalism.
His departure is framed not as a professional shift away from journalism, but as a personal recalibration.
Cooper’s Legacy at 60 Minutes
Since joining 60 Minutes, Cooper has reported on major domestic and international stories. His work included investigations into long-term COVID-19 effects and historical reporting on a shipwreck believed to be the last slave ship to arrive in the United States.
At the same time, he maintained his nightly anchor role on Anderson Cooper 360°, becoming one of the few journalists to hold prominent positions in both cable and network television simultaneously.
Over two decades, Cooper helped modernize 60 Minutes’ storytelling style while preserving its investigative rigor. CBS praised him for taking viewers “on journeys to faraway places” and delivering consequential interviews.
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CBS News Shake-Up Under New Leadership
Cooper’s exit also comes amid broader changes at CBS News. Media executive Bari Weiss was appointed editor-in-chief following corporate restructuring tied to Paramount Skydance.
Recent editorial decisions, including the temporary pulling of a 60 Minutes segment related to immigration policy under the Trump administration, sparked internal debate about newsroom independence.
Additionally, longtime executive producer Bill Owens stepped down in 2025 amid legal and corporate tensions involving President Donald Trump and a dispute over interview editing.
While there is no indication Cooper’s departure was directly tied to these controversies, his exit adds to a list of high-profile transitions within the network.
What’s Next for Anderson Cooper?
Despite leaving 60 Minutes, Cooper remains firmly at CNN. He renewed his contract with the network in December 2025 and continues to anchor Anderson Cooper 360°.
He also co-hosts CNN’s annual New Year’s Eve special alongside Andy Cohen, a broadcast that consistently draws strong ratings and viral moments.
Industry analysts view Cooper’s continued presence at CNN as evidence that his core journalism career remains stable, even as he steps away from network television reporting.
A Career Defined by Major Global Coverage
Cooper joined CNN in 2001 and has reported extensively on global events, including the Iraq war, Hurricane Katrina and the Gulf of Mexico oil spill. His reputation as a field reporter willing to cover crisis zones helped cement his standing as one of America’s most recognizable journalists.
His nearly 20-year run at 60 Minutes added further credibility, linking his name with one of the most storied brands in television journalism.
As CBS navigates internal restructuring and newsroom evolution, Cooper’s exit signals a transitional moment for both the anchor and the network.
FAQ
Why is Anderson Cooper leaving 60 Minutes?
Anderson Cooper confirmed he will not renew his contract with CBS. He said the decision was driven by his desire to spend more time with his two young children.
Is Anderson Cooper leaving CNN?
No. Cooper remains at CNN and renewed his contract in December 2025. He continues to anchor Anderson Cooper 360° and co-host CNN’s New Year’s Eve special.
How long was Anderson Cooper on 60 Minutes?
He served as a correspondent for nearly 20 years, beginning in the 2006–2007 season.
Who owns CBS News now?
CBS News is under corporate restructuring tied to Paramount Skydance. Bari Weiss was appointed editor-in-chief during the transition.
Did newsroom controversies influence Anderson Cooper’s exit?
There is no official confirmation that internal editorial disputes influenced his decision. Cooper stated family priorities were the primary reason.
Who will replace Anderson Cooper on 60 Minutes?
CBS has not announced a replacement correspondent at this time.
What major stories did Anderson Cooper cover on 60 Minutes?
His reports included investigations into long COVID cases and historical reporting on a shipwreck believed to be the last slave ship to reach the United States.
How old is Anderson Cooper?
As of 2026, Anderson Cooper is 57 years old.