Anderson Cooper Officially Exits ‘60 Minutes’ After Two Decades on the Iconic News Program

May 18, 2026

Veteran journalist  has officially departed from  after an impressive 20-year run on the legendary news program.


The announcement marks the end of an era for one of television journalism’s most recognizable figures, whose reporting and interviews became a major part of the long-running broadcast’s modern identity. Cooper joined the program in the mid-2000s and quickly became known for his in-depth reporting, global field coverage, and calm but direct interviewing style.


Over the years, Anderson Cooper covered some of the world’s most significant stories, including natural disasters, political crises, wars, and major cultural moments. His work on  earned praise for combining traditional investigative journalism with emotionally compelling storytelling.


Fans and colleagues reacted emotionally to the news, with many praising Cooper’s professionalism, credibility, and lasting impact on broadcast journalism. Social media quickly filled with tributes highlighting memorable interviews and major reporting moments throughout his career with the program.

Despite leaving , Cooper is expected to remain active in media through his continued role at , where he remains one of the network’s leading anchors and correspondents.


Industry analysts say Cooper’s departure reflects a larger shift occurring across traditional television journalism as veteran broadcasters continue transitioning into new media ventures, streaming platforms, and expanded digital storytelling opportunities.


As audiences reflect on his two decades with the iconic program, Anderson Cooper’s legacy within television journalism remains firmly established as one of the defining media careers of his generation.

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