Journalist Anderson Cooper has announced that he will leave the program 60 Minutes, on CBS, after nearly two decades as a correspondent.
The news was confirmed by PEOPLE magazine, which revealed that the 57-year-old anchor chose not to renew his contract with the network.
The decision marks the end of a chapter that began in 2007, when Cooper joined the iconic newsmagazine while continuing his role as anchor of Anderson Cooper 360° on CNN. Over the years, he became one of the few journalists to simultaneously hold prominent positions on both cable television and a major broadcast network.
In a statement, Cooper explained that his choice was driven by personal reasons.
“Being a correspondent for 60 Minutes has been one of the great honors of my career. I’ve been able to tell incredible stories and work with some of the best producers, editors and camera crews in the business,” he said.
He added that after nearly twenty years balancing responsibilities at CNN and CBS, he feels it is time to prioritize his family.
“I now have young children and want to spend as much time as possible with them while they still want to spend time with me.”
Cooper is the father of two boys — Wyatt, 4, and Sebastian, 3 — whom he shares with former partner Benjamin Maisani.
In an official statement, CBS News highlighted the journalist’s contribution to the program:
“For more than two decades, Anderson Cooper has taken 60 Minutes viewers on journeys to far-flung places, told unforgettable stories, reported on important investigations and interviewed many prominent figures. We are grateful to him for dedicating so much of his life to this broadcast and understand the importance of spending more time with family. 60 Minutes will be here if he ever wishes to return.”
Despite stepping away from the Sunday program, Cooper remains at CNN. In December 2025, he renewed his contract with the network and continues to host Anderson Cooper 360°, as well as co-hosting CNN’s traditional New Year’s Eve special alongside Andy Cohen.
His departure from 60 Minutes closes an important chapter in Cooper’s career but does not signal a break from television journalism.
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Source and images: People | CBS News | Instagram @60minutes, @andersoncooper. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
