Anderson Cooper Leaving CBS News’ ’60 Minutes’
Anderson Cooper is reportedly set to depart from CBS News’ renowned “60 Minutes” after an impressive two-decade contribution to the show. This revelation comes amid ongoing challenges facing the venerable news magazine due to management decisions following the acquisition by Paramount Skydance.
Highlights of Anderson Cooper’s Career
Cooper expressed gratitude for his time on “60 Minutes,” describing it as one of the high points of his career. He stated, “Being a correspondent at ‘60 Minutes’ has been one of the highlights of my career. I’ve been able to tell amazing stories and work with some of the best producers, editors, and camera crews in the business.”
Balancing Work and Family
With his children growing up, Cooper aims to prioritize his family life. He mentioned, “I want to spend as much time with them as possible, while they want to spend time with me.” Recently, there were discussions regarding his contract renewal at CBS, but he has chosen to focus more on his responsibilities at CNN.
Current Projects at CNN
- Cooper hosts a prime-time program at CNN, airing at 8 p.m.
- He leads a popular podcast centered on discussions about grief.
- Cooper also hosts a long-form Sunday program titled “The Whole Story.”
Potential Impacts on CBS News
Anderson Cooper’s exit represents another setback for CBS News under the leadership of editor-in-chief Bari Weiss. Since her appointment, Weiss has attempted to revitalize the newsroom but has faced criticism for several controversial decisions. These include delaying a meaningful report by correspondent Sharyn Alfonsi regarding the deportation of migrants, aimed at securing a response from a Trump administration official.
Changes and Challenges Ahead
Under Weiss, CBS News is experiencing tension between its management and staff. Reports indicate that there may be upcoming layoffs, impacting at least 15% of CBS News personnel. This environment of uncertainty has led to discussions about altering the focus of “60 Minutes,” prioritizing softer features and celebrity profiles over hard news and investigative pieces.
Controversial Corporate Decisions
The credibility of “60 Minutes” has been questioned recently. CBS News faced a substantial lawsuit from former President Trump regarding editing a 2024 interview. To resolve this issue, CBS agreed to a $16 million settlement, which affected the newsroom’s morale and autonomy.
The Future for “60 Minutes”
Cooper’s departure will also mean a significant loss in promotional opportunities for “60 Minutes.” His segments have long been featured on his CNN show, helping to boost the newsmagazine’s visibility. As Cooper prepares for this new chapter, his final appearances on “60 Minutes,” particularly in the “Last Minute” segment, remain uncertain.
