Anderson Cooper to Depart ’60 Minutes’ Amid CBS News Shakeup

Anderson Cooper, the prominent CNN anchor and correspondent, will be leaving CBS News’ 60 Minutes at the end of the current season after nearly two decades with the program. The decision comes amidst ongoing changes and reported internal friction at CBS News under editor-in-chief Bari Weiss.

A Two-Decade Run at 60 Minutes

Cooper has been a correspondent for 60 Minutes since 2006, balancing his role with his duties at CNN. In a statement, Cooper described his time with the show as “one of the great honors of my career,” adding, “I got to share amazing stories, and work with some of the best producers, editors, and camera crews in the business.”

Family and Work-Life Balance

Cooper cited a desire to spend more time with his young children as a key factor in his decision. “For nearly twenty years, I’ve been able to balance my jobs at CNN and CBS, but I have little kids now and I want to spend as much time with them as possible, while they still want to spend time with me,” he explained.

Turmoil at CBS News

Cooper’s departure is the latest in a series of changes at CBS News since Bari Weiss took over as editor-in-chief in October 2025, following the Paramount Skydance takeover. Weiss had promised to revitalize the division and restore trust in the network’s journalism, but her tenure has been marked by internal friction and editorial disputes.

Editorial Disputes and Concerns

Recent controversies include a disagreement over a segment concerning a prison in El Salvador and concerns about the handling of a story related to the Trump administration’s policies regarding South African refugees. Sources reported that Weiss provided “extensive editorial feedback” on the latter segment, which was viewed by producers in December 2025. A CBS News source denied claims that Weiss deliberately delayed the story, stating it was still under development. The Independent reported on these disputes.

Cooper’s Broader Career

Anderson Cooper joined CNN in 2001 and has covered major events including the Iraq War, Hurricane Katrina, and the Gulf of Mexico oil spill. He will continue to focus on his role at CNN. His recent work for 60 Minutes included investigations into long-haul COVID-19 sufferers and the discovery of a slave ship near Mobile, Alabama. The Guardian detailed his career highlights.

Impact of the Departure

Cooper’s exit removes a well-known figure from 60 Minutes during a period of instability. The program, a cornerstone of CBS News, faces an uncertain future as it navigates these internal challenges and leadership changes. The New York Post first reported Cooper’s plans to leave.