Anderson Cooper Announces Departure from CBS's '60 Minutes' to Focus on CNN and Family Life
In a significant shake-up for American broadcast journalism, Anderson Cooper has confirmed he will not renew his contract with CBS's flagship news programme 60 Minutes, ending his tenure as a correspondent at the conclusion of the current season. Cooper, who has balanced roles at both CBS and CNN since 2006, cited a desire to dedicate more time to his young children and his primary anchoring duties at CNN as key factors in his decision.
A Career Honour and Personal Priorities
In an official statement provided to Deadline, Cooper expressed deep gratitude for his long-standing position on the iconic news show. "Being a correspondent at 60 Minutes has been one of the great honours of my career," he remarked. "I got to tell amazing stories and work with some of the best producers, editors, and camera crews in the business." He elaborated on the personal motivations behind his exit, noting, "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 with me."
Tumultuous Times at '60 Minutes' Under Bari Weiss's Leadership
Cooper's departure coincides with a period of intense controversy and internal discord at 60 Minutes, largely centred on editorial decisions under CBS News editor-in-chief Bari Weiss, who assumed the role in October 2025. The show has recently faced allegations of interference and censorship, particularly regarding segments critical of former President Donald Trump.
Last month, reports emerged that Weiss had intervened in a Cooper-reported story examining the Trump administration's plan to accept South African refugees. This segment, which addressed Trump's promotion of debunked conspiracy theories about genocide in South Africa and his prioritisation of white South Africans' visa claims, was allegedly subjected to "extensive editorial feedback" from Weiss, according to sources cited in a newsletter by a former CNN media reporter. The report suggested the story was "all but guaranteed to provoke Trump" and underwent an "abnormal" level of review.
Denials and Ongoing Editorial Scrutiny
CBS News sources have vehemently denied these claims, insisting the segment remains in active development. A statement to The Independent asserted, "Bari Weiss did not hold the story. The story was already going through our standard, rigorous editorial review led by executive producer Tanya Simon, which led to multiple screenings. The story was not held; it's still in action and in reporting stages with the team." The source added that Simon had directed the team to continue their reporting, emphasising the network's commitment to thorough journalistic processes.
Broader Backlash and Internal Unrest
This incident is not isolated. In December, another 60 Minutes report critical of Trump—focusing on the mistreatment of migrants sent to a prison in El Salvador—was pulled from broadcast, sparking significant backlash within CBS. Weiss defended the decision in a Christmas email to staff, arguing it was necessary to "win back" the trust of Americans disillusioned with network news. However, reporter Sharyn Alfonsi, who produced the segment, leaked an email alleging "corporate censorship" as the true reason for its cancellation.
Sources within the broadcaster described the atmosphere as volatile, with one insider characterising the situation as a "holy f***ing dumpster fire" and indicating staff were prepared to "revolt" over the editorial controversies. These tensions highlight the challenges facing 60 Minutes as it navigates leadership changes and political sensitivities.
Looking Ahead for Cooper and CBS
As Cooper prepares to exit, his legacy at 60 Minutes includes nearly two decades of high-profile reporting, though his final months are overshadowed by the show's internal strife. The Independent has reached out to both Cooper and CBS for additional comments on his departure and the ongoing editorial disputes. With Cooper refocusing on CNN and family, and 60 Minutes grappling with credibility issues, this move marks a pivotal moment for one of television's most enduring news programmes.
