Anderson Cooper has officially closed the chapter on his two-decade long tenure with ’60 Minutes’. The renowned broadcast journalist marked his emotional farewell on May 17, 2026, during the broadcast of the news programme that has been a staple of American journalism for years.
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In a bittersweet announcement earlier this year in February, Cooper revealed his decision to step away from CBS. His primary motivation, he explained, is to dedicate more time to his family, particularly his two young sons, Wyatt and Sebastian, whom he shares with ex-partner Benjamin Maisani. While Cooper will no longer be reporting for ’60 Minutes’, he will continue as the anchor of ‘Anderson Cooper 360°’ on CNN, maintaining his role as a prominent figure in news broadcasting.
Reflecting on his time with ’60 Minutes’, Cooper shared that the experience never felt like a job, but rather an opportunity to engage deeply with people’s lives and stories. In a poignant moment during the ’60 Minutes Overtime’ segment, he expressed gratitude for being able to walk in the footsteps of journalistic giants, emphasising how deeply he valued the stories he was able to tell over the years.
Cooper joined ’60 Minutes’ in the 2006-2007 season and has since gained accolades for his meticulous reporting, conducting interviews with a wide array of influential figures, and covering significant world events. His departure comes during a time of transformation for the programme, which has seen several high-profile changes and controversies recently, including the exits of key personnel and editorial shifts.
In a heartfelt statement regarding his decision, Cooper remarked, “I have a 4-year-old and a just now 6-year-old, and I want to spend as much time with them as I can while they still want to spend time with me.” This desire for more family time resonated with audiences, showcasing the journalist’s commitment to his role as a father in addition to his passion for news.
CBS News expressed their appreciation for Cooper’s contributions, acknowledging his remarkable journey with ’60 Minutes’. The news organisation praised him for his storytelling and for guiding viewers through a myriad of consequential investigations and compelling narratives. They also left the door open for his return, stating that should he wish to come back, there will always be a place for him.
Cooper’s last episode featured an introspective segment where he revisited some of his most cherished memories from his time on ’60 Minutes’. He recounted thrilling experiences, like diving with crocodiles, and the profound impact of interviewing both celebrities and everyday people who have compelling stories to tell. His reflective journey brought him full circle to express a hope that future generations of his family would also appreciate the programme’s legacy.
While his decision to leave ’60 Minutes’ has been widely discussed, Cooper has clarified that it was not a response to internal CBS dynamics or changes in leadership. He pointed out that his commitment to CNN has always been his primary focus. While serving as a correspondent for ’60 Minutes’, he often found himself balancing demanding schedules that required significant dedication to both outlets.
Throughout his farewell, Cooper underscored his gratitude for the experiences he has had and the amazing colleagues he has worked with at both CNN and CBS. He stated, “Being a correspondent at ’60 Minutes’ has been one of the great honours of my career,” highlighting the meaningful narratives he has had the chance to share.
With his departure from ’60 Minutes’, Anderson Cooper leaves behind a remarkable legacy that includes a broad array of impactful journalism. His presence will undoubtedly be missed by viewers who have come to expect thoughtful and thorough reporting from the veteran newsman. As he embarks on this new phase of life, Cooper remains a key figure in the landscape of broadcast journalism, committed to continuing his work at CNN while cherishing the time he can dedicate to family.