Anderson Cooper to exit '60 Minutes' after nearly 20 years

After nearly two decades, the CNN anchor is departing CBS’ flagship news magazine to prioritise family time

Anderson Cooper is set to depart CBS News’ 60 Minutes after almost two decades as a correspondent, marking a significant change for the long-running Sunday newsmagazine.

According to a person familiar with his decision, Cooper chose not to renew his role with the program as he shifts his focus toward family and his expanding responsibilities at CNN, where he anchors a nightly prime-time broadcast and hosts additional longform programming.

“Being a correspondent at 60 Minutes has been one of the highlights of my career. I got to tell amazing stories, and work with some of the best producers, editors and camera crews in the business,” Cooper said in a statement. “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 want to spend time with me.”

CBS News said it was “grateful” for Cooper’s contributions and added that “60 Minutes will be here if he ever wants to return.”

Cooper had reportedly been in discussions with CBS about extending his tenure but ultimately opted to concentrate on his work at CNN, where he recently signed a contract extension. In addition to anchoring his nightly program, he hosts a grief-focused podcast and a Sunday longform series.

His departure comes during a period of turbulence at CBS News following the acquisition of its parent company by Paramount Skydance. Leadership changes and restructuring efforts have drawn scrutiny, particularly surrounding editorial decisions at “60 Minutes” and broader newsroom cuts.

“60 Minutes,” now in its 58th season, remains one of television’s most influential news programs, blending investigative reporting with in-depth profiles and features. Cooper’s exit removes one of its most recognizable correspondents, and a prominent cross-network presence who frequently showcased the program’s segments on his CNN platform.

It remains unclear whether his recent on-air appearance marked his final contribution to the current season.