Anderson Cooper has delivered his final report as a correspondent on CBS’s “60 Minutes.” His last appearance aired on May 17, 2026.
The veteran journalist cited a desire to spend more time with his young children as the reason for stepping away from the iconic newsmagazine after nearly two decades, while continuing as a full-time anchor at CNN.
CBS has not announced a successor or any plans to fill Cooper’s role.
“For nearly 20 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,” Cooper said when announcing his exit, per People.
Cooper’s Career at ‘60 Minutes’
Cooper joined “60 Minutes” in 2006 while already anchoring “Anderson Cooper 360°” on CNN. He covered major international stories and domestic crises, earning multiple Emmy Awards during his tenure, CBS News noted.
Cooper, 58, began his journalism career in the early 1990s and joined CNN in 2001. He gained national attention for his on-the-ground coverage of Hurricane Katrina. He is the son of Gloria Vanderbilt and Wyatt Emory Cooper and has two young sons.
Speculation Over Potential Successor
In a prediction market on June 4, Polymarket included wagering on whether podcast host Joe Rogan could emerge as a candidate:
NEW: Joe Rogan is reportedly being considered as a possible “60 Minutes” replacement for Anderson Cooper. pic.twitter.com/8NDsM7nXkQ
— Polymarket (@Polymarket) June 4, 2026
RadarOnline and other publications also speculated that Rogan is among those being discussed.
These reports remain unconfirmed.
Who Is Joe Rogan?
Joe Rogan, 58, launched “The Joe Rogan Experience” podcast in 2009. The show has become one of the most-listened-to podcasts globally, featuring long-form interviews with guests from politics, science, comedy, and sports. Rogan also serves as a color commentator for the UFC and previously hosted “Fear Factor.”
Rogan has faced criticism over certain guest comments on topics including COVID-19, vaccines, and politics. Supporters credit him with platforming diverse viewpoints and conducting extended conversations rarely seen on traditional television. CBS has not confirmed any discussions with Rogan or other candidates.
Rogan has not publicly commented on the speculation as of the time of publication.
Broader Changes at ‘60 Minutes’
Cooper’s exit is part of a larger transition at the program following Bari Weiss’s appointment as CBS News editor-in-chief. The show has seen other personnel changes, including the departure of longtime correspondent Scott Pelley and shifts in executive producers, per CBS News.
“60 Minutes,” which premiered in 1968, remains a flagship program for CBS.
