Veteran journalist Anderson Cooper has announced his departure from the iconic news programme 60 Minutes, ending nearly 20 years as a correspondent on the award-winning show. Cooper joined the programme in May 2006 and quickly became one of its most recognizable faces, contributing to some of the series’ most impactful stories.
In a statement released on February 16, Cooper described his time on 60 Minutes as a career highlight. He credited the role with providing opportunities to tell compelling stories alongside some of the industry’s most talented producers, editors, and camera crews. Reflecting on the experience, he said joining the programme was a dream come true, recalling how he grew up watching the show with his family and immediately accepted the offer when approached to become a correspondent.
Cooper explained that his decision to step away is motivated primarily by family considerations. After years of balancing responsibilities at both CNN and CBS, he expressed a desire to spend more time with his young children. He emphasized that leaving now feels like the right choice, both personally and professionally.
Industry observers have noted that Cooper’s reporting helped define a generation of 60 Minutes journalism, delivering in-depth investigations and human-interest stories that reached millions of viewers. His departure marks the end of an era for the broadcast, and his colleagues have praised him for his professionalism, integrity, and distinctive storytelling style.
While Cooper leaves the programme, he has indicated that he will continue pursuing other journalism and media projects, signaling that his voice and influence in television news are far from finished.
