Photo Credit: 60 Minutes/CBS
Anderson Cooper is closing a major chapter of his career.
The veteran journalist will not renew his contract with CBS, officially ending his nearly two-decade run as a correspondent on 60 Minutes. Cooper confirmed his decision in a statement, describing his time on the iconic newsmagazine as one of the greatest honors of his professional life.
“Being a correspondent at 60 Minutes has been an extraordinary experience,” Cooper said. “I’ve had the privilege of telling meaningful stories and collaborating with some of the finest producers and crews in television.”
Ultimately, however, the decision came down to family. Cooper, 57, shares two young sons with his former partner, Benjamin Maisani, and says their early years are something he doesn’t want to miss.
“For years, I’ve balanced my responsibilities at CNN and CBS,” he explained. “But my children are still little, and I want to spend as much time with them as I can while they still want me around.”
Cooper joined _60 Minutes_ in 2006 while continuing to anchor Anderson Cooper 360° on CNN, a rare dual role spanning cable and network television. Over the years, he reported from conflict zones, conducted high-profile interviews, and delivered in-depth investigations that became hallmarks of the broadcast.
CBS News praised his contributions, noting his storytelling and commitment to rigorous journalism. The network expressed gratitude for his years of service and left the door open for a possible return in the future.
Though he is stepping away from _60 Minutes_, Cooper is not leaving television. He recently renewed his contract with CNN and will continue anchoring his nightly program, as well as co-hosting the network’s annual New Year’s Eve special.
His exit comes during a period of transition at CBS News, marked by leadership changes and editorial debates. Still, for Cooper, the choice was personal, a decision shaped less by industry shifts and more by life at home.