After nearly two decades as one of the most recognizable correspondents on 60 Minutes, Anderson Cooper is stepping away from the iconic CBS news magazine - and the timing has sparked questions.
Is this simply about family? Or is it connected to the broader shakeup unfolding inside CBS News?
Here's what we know.
Cooper Confirms His Departure
Anderson Cooper confirmed that he will not renew his agreement with 60 Minutes, ending a run that began during the 2006-2007 season. His final segments are expected to air through the end of the current season.
In a statement, Cooper made clear that his decision was personal.
"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," he said.
Cooper, who has anchored Anderson Cooper 360° on CNN since 2001, recently signed a new contract with CNN, where he will continue his primetime show along with long-form and podcast projects.
Is This About Family - Or Something More?
Cooper's stated reason is straightforward: prioritizing time with his young children.
At 58, the veteran journalist has been juggling major roles at both CNN and CBS for years - a rare dual-network arrangement made possible through a partnership between the two companies.
Balancing two demanding news platforms, particularly in a nonstop political and global news cycle, is no small feat. By stepping away from 60 Minutes, Cooper effectively reduces his workload while maintaining his core position at CNN.
Still, his departure comes during a period of noticeable turbulence at CBS News.
A Network in Transition
Cooper's exit is the latest high-profile change at CBS News since Bari Weiss became editor-in-chief following Paramount's acquisition of her outlet, The Free Press, and broader corporate restructuring under Paramount Skydance ownership.
Weiss has outlined plans to reshape the network's editorial direction and introduce what she describes as a more "streaming mentality" as CBS attempts to reverse declining ratings and compete more aggressively with ABC and NBC.
Her tenure has not been without friction.
There have been reported internal disagreements over editorial decisions, including delays in airing certain segments. Other senior journalists have also departed during this transition period.
While there is no confirmed link between these developments and Cooper's decision, the timing has led some observers to connect the dots.
Did CBS Try to Keep Him?
According to multiple reports, CBS leadership had expressed interest in expanding Cooper's role, potentially bringing him on full-time and even considering him for a broader anchor position.
Instead, Cooper chose to remain committed to CNN, where he continues to cover major global events and host multiple programs.
CBS, in a statement, thanked Cooper for his years of reporting and emphasized that the door remains open should he choose to return.
"For more than two decades, Anderson Cooper has taken 60 Minutes viewers on journeys to faraway places," the network said. "We're grateful to him and understand the importance of spending more time with family."
What This Means for "60 Minutes"
60 Minutes remains one of the most storied brands in American journalism. However, like many legacy broadcast programs, it faces challenges in the digital era, including shifting viewer habits and competition from streaming platforms and online news.
Cooper's departure removes one of the program's most recognizable faces at a moment when CBS is attempting to reinvent parts of its news operation.
Still, the show continues with its established team of correspondents, and CBS has not indicated any structural changes to the program itself.
So Why Is Anderson Cooper Leaving?
Based on confirmed statements, the answer is simple: family.
After nearly 20 years balancing two major news platforms, Cooper says he wants more time with his children while they are still young.
While his departure coincides with leadership changes and broader shifts at CBS News, there is no public indication that internal disputes or corporate restructuring directly prompted his exit.
For now, Cooper remains firmly anchored at CNN - and 60 Minutes moves forward in a period of transition.
The bigger question may not be why he's leaving, but what this moment signals for CBS News as it navigates its next chapter.
