After more than two decades at CNN, Anderson Cooper may be preparing to say goodbye.
According to sources cited by Page Six, the longtime anchor is “ready to walk” away from the network—and his reported $18 million annual salary—following a series of behind-the-scenes disappointments and a steady decline in ratings for Anderson Cooper 360°.
“He’s had enough,” one insider claimed. “Ratings are down, and Anderson feels increasingly sidelined.”
The 58-year-old journalist, who has been a staple at CNN for 24 years, was reportedly “furious” after being passed over as a moderator for the network’s primetime presidential debate in favor of Dana Bash and Jake Tapper. That snub, sources say, was a tipping point.
Adding fuel to the fire is the rise of conservative commentator Scott Jennings, whose often fiery appearances on CNN NewsNight have drawn a surge in viewership. “Anderson can’t stand it,” the insider said. “Scott gets to rant and rave on-air, while the rest of the anchors are tightly scripted. People tune in just to see what he’ll say next, and the execs are eating it up.”
In contrast, Cooper’s own show has been slipping in the coveted 25-54 age demographic, prompting “tense” meetings with network executives, one source added. “He didn’t take the criticism well.”
Fueling speculation of an exit, Cooper has recently enlisted powerhouse agent Bryan Lourd—seen by many in the industry as a sign he’s exploring new opportunities outside CNN. “It’s obvious,” said the insider. “He’s lining up his next move. Whether it’s streaming, writing, or even a run at politics, Anderson is planning his next chapter.”
As of now, Cooper remains at CNN, but the buzz inside the network suggests the veteran anchor’s future is far from certain.
