Anderson Cooper has wrapped up his nearly 20-year run as a correspondent on CBS’s flagship news program 60 Minutes, capping off a storied career at the network with a profile of acclaimed documentary filmmaker Ken Burns.
The veteran journalist, who also hosts Anderson Cooper 360° on CNN, said the decision to step away from CBS comes down to priorities. Cooper wants to dedicate more time to his family while concentrating on his primary role at the cable news network. He’s already renewed his CNN contract through 2027, signaling that he’s not leaving journalism—just streamlining his workload.
Among his final pieces for 60 Minutes was an investigative report that fact-checked President Donald Trump’s claims about a supposed “genocide” of white farmers in South Africa. The segment drew widespread attention for its rigorous reporting and pointed political implications.
Cooper’s exit marks another significant shift at the long-running newsmagazine, which has undergone considerable changes in recent years. But his departure doesn’t diminish what he’s accomplished during his tenure: multiple Emmy awards, a reputation for hard-hitting international investigations, and a lasting impact on the program’s legacy.
The move reflects broader changes in broadcast news leadership as major figures reassess their commitments and focus on where they can make the greatest impact.
