CNN’s Brian Stelter had an unexpected (and adorable) guest during a live interview when his 5-year-old son made a surprise appearance on camera—flashing a mischievous grin before quickly ducking out of the shot.
The lighthearted interruption happened on Sunday as Stelter was discussing former President Donald Trump’s $10 billion defamation lawsuit against The Wall Street Journal during a live segment with fellow CNN host Jessica Dean. Though the setting initially appeared to be a professional studio with a neutral blue background, the truth became clear when the young child popped into the frame—revealing Stelter was broadcasting from home.
Stelter stayed composed and continued the conversation despite the brief disruption, while Dean gave a subtle smile at the unexpected cameo but maintained her professionalism throughout the segment.
“I tried my best not to break out laughing when he snuck into the camera shot,” Stelter later wrote on social media, sharing a screenshot from the interview.
After wrapping up their political discussion, Dean playfully acknowledged the visit. “Alright, Brian Stelter, thanks to you—and I think you had a little helper with you too, so give our thanks to him,” she said.
“I apologize for my five-year-old,” Stelter replied with a smile. “It’s bedtime here at the Stelter house.”
Dean reassured him that no apology was needed. “We’re a family show,” she said warmly. “It’s always nice to have some extra hands.”
The moment quickly gained traction online, with viewers amused by the spontaneous appearance. “Loved it! We need a laugh now and then. He’s adorable—and it happens when you work from home,” one user wrote.
“Honestly, who needs bloopers when you’ve got live chaos? Keep the surprises coming—at least it’s more entertaining than the news today,” another joked.
A third added, “That’s cute. Love seeing anchors as real people.”
The brief but charming interruption served as a relatable reminder of the work-from-home reality many families still navigate—and brought some much-needed levity to a serious news segment.
