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Anderson Cooper Expected to Leave '60 Minutes'

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  Published in Media and Entertainment on Tuesday, February 17th 2026 at 20:46 GMT by New York Post
      Locales: New York, Connecticut, UNITED STATES

By [Your Name], Investigative Journalist

New York, NY - February 18th, 2026 - Anderson Cooper, the highly-respected and recognizable face of CBS News, is widely expected to leave '60 Minutes' amidst a period of significant upheaval and restructuring within the network. Sources close to CBS confirmed Monday that Cooper's departure is all but certain, marking the latest development in a series of dramatic changes initiated by interim president Bari Weiss.

This isn't simply a personnel shift; it's a symptom of a network grappling with a damaged reputation and a desperate need for revitalization. The past year has been particularly turbulent for CBS News, punctuated by a string of high-profile controversies, embarrassing incidents, and subsequent firings. These events have eroded public trust and created an atmosphere of instability that Weiss is now tasked with addressing.

Cooper's potential exit, whether voluntary or a result of the ongoing realignment, underscores the extent of the changes being implemented. While details concerning the timeline of his departure and his future plans remain vague, the fact that a veteran anchor of his stature is considering - or being pushed toward - leaving '60 Minutes' is a telling indicator of the pressure cooker environment at CBS.

Weiss, a controversial figure herself, was appointed as interim president last month following the fallout from the previous leadership's missteps. Her mandate is clear: to overhaul CBS News and restore its credibility. Her approach, however, appears to be one of sweeping changes, and that inevitably means difficult decisions and the potential displacement of long-serving journalists.

Beyond Cooper: A Network in Flux

Cooper isn't an isolated case. The 'shakeup' referenced in initial reports is far-reaching, impacting multiple departments and levels within CBS News. While the network remains tight-lipped about the specifics, industry insiders suggest that several other prominent anchors and producers are also facing uncertainty. The focus appears to be on streamlining operations, reducing costs, and injecting fresh perspectives into the network's programming.

This restructuring mirrors a wider trend in the media landscape, where traditional broadcast networks are struggling to adapt to the rise of digital platforms and the changing consumption habits of audiences. The pressure to deliver ratings and attract advertisers has intensified, leading to increasingly aggressive cost-cutting measures and a willingness to take risks with established talent.

The Weiss Factor: A Divisive Leader?

Bari Weiss's appointment itself was met with mixed reactions. Known for her conservative leanings and outspoken views, Weiss has often been a polarizing figure. Critics question whether her approach will exacerbate existing tensions within the newsroom and further alienate viewers. Supporters, however, argue that her outsider perspective is exactly what CBS News needs to break free from entrenched practices and embrace innovation.

The challenge for Weiss is to balance the need for change with the importance of preserving journalistic integrity. The network's reputation is already fragile, and any further missteps could prove catastrophic.

What's Next for Anderson Cooper?

The question on everyone's mind is: what will Cooper do next? He currently co-hosts CNN's morning show, 'CNN This Morning', alongside Kaitlan Collins and Poppy Harlow. While he's contractually obligated to CNN, rumors are swirling about potential opportunities in streaming media or even a foray into independent journalism. Cooper has demonstrated a versatility that extends beyond traditional broadcast news, having hosted numerous documentaries and town halls. His ability to connect with audiences on a personal level, combined with his sharp journalistic skills, makes him a valuable asset to any media organization.

The Future of '60 Minutes'

'60 Minutes,' a cornerstone of CBS News for over five decades, is also facing an uncertain future. The program, while still highly respected, has seen its viewership decline in recent years as audiences migrate to other platforms. The departure of a key anchor like Cooper could further exacerbate this trend. CBS will need to carefully consider its strategy for revitalizing '60 Minutes' and ensuring its continued relevance in a rapidly changing media landscape.

It's clear that the changes at CBS News are more than just cosmetic. They represent a fundamental shift in the network's priorities and a willingness to take bold steps to address its current challenges. Whether these steps will ultimately succeed remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: CBS News is at a critical juncture in its history.