Anderson Cooper: Highest-Paid CNN Anchor Biography, Net Worth, Career & Life Facts (2025)
Anderson Cooper is widely recognized as the highest-paid anchor at CNN, celebrated for his insightful journalism, global reporting, and distinctive presence on American television. Based in New York, Cooper is renowned for hosting Anderson Cooper 360° and has become a household name through decades of impactful reporting, earning respect as one of the most influential figures in broadcast news.
Quick Facts
| Full Name | Anderson Hays Cooper |
| Nickname | Anderson |
| Profession / Occupation | Journalist, Television Anchor, Author |
| Birth Date | June 3, 1967 |
| Age | 58 (as of 2025) |
| Birth Place | New York City, New York, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Famous For | Hosting Anderson Cooper 360°, CNN Anchor |
| Known For | Breaking news coverage, global reporting, interviews |
| Ethnicity | White |
| Zodiac Sign | Gemini |
| Height & Weight | 5’10” (178 cm), approx. 167 lbs (76 kg) |
| Hair Color | Silver/Gray |
| Eye Color | Blue |
| Education | Yale University (B.A. in Political Science) |
| Religion | Atheist (raised Episcopalian) |
| Marital Status/Spouse | Single |
| Relationship | Formerly with Benjamin Maisani |
| Children | 2 (Wyatt Morgan Cooper, Sebastian Luke Maisani-Cooper) |
| Relatives | Gloria Vanderbilt (mother), Wyatt Emory Cooper (father) |
| Hobbies | Travel, photography, reading, adventure sports |
| Employer/Organization | CNN |
| Years Active | 1990–present |
| Net Worth (Estimated) | $220 million (2025) |
Early Life & Education
Anderson Cooper was born on June 3, 1967, in New York City, to renowned fashion designer Gloria Vanderbilt and writer Wyatt Emory Cooper. Raised amidst affluence and public attention, Anderson’s early life was marked by both privilege and personal loss, including the tragic death of his father when Anderson was just 10 years old. He attended the prestigious Dalton School in Manhattan and later enrolled at Yale University, where he graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science. From a young age, Cooper showed a keen interest in world affairs and journalism, often traveling and writing about his experiences.
Career Journey
Beginnings in Journalism
Anderson Cooper’s career began after Yale, when he worked as a fact-checker for Channel One News. Driven by curiosity and a passion for field reporting, he traveled to war-torn regions such as Myanmar and Somalia to produce his own news segments, quickly establishing himself as a fearless and resourceful journalist.
Major Milestones & Rise to Prominence
- Joined ABC News in 1995, serving as a correspondent and co-anchor for World News Now.
- Moved to CNN in 2001, initially as a co-anchor before launching Anderson Cooper 360° in 2003.
- Covered major global events including Hurricane Katrina, the Haiti earthquake, the Arab Spring, and U.S. presidential elections.
- Hosted several CNN specials and documentaries, earning a reputation for empathetic, on-the-ground reporting.
Recent Activity & Current Position
As of 2025, Anderson Cooper remains the face of Anderson Cooper 360°, anchoring nightly broadcasts and leading CNN’s special coverage of breaking news. He is also a regular contributor to 60 Minutes on CBS, further expanding his influence in broadcast journalism.
Career Stats & Achievements
- Over 30 years of experience in journalism
- Multiple Emmy Awards and prestigious honors
- Author of best-selling books, including The Rainbow Comes and Goes and Dispatches from the Edge
- Recognized for his humanitarian reporting and advocacy
Personal Life
Anderson Cooper is openly gay and has been a strong advocate for LGBTQ+ rights. He was in a long-term relationship with nightclub owner Benjamin Maisani; together, they co-parent their two sons, Wyatt and Sebastian. Cooper maintains a close relationship with his family, especially his late mother, Gloria Vanderbilt. Outside of work, he enjoys travel, photography, and adventure sports, and is known for his philanthropic efforts supporting children’s charities and disaster relief.
Awards & Achievements
- Multiple Emmy Awards for Outstanding News Coverage
- Peabody Award for Hurricane Katrina reporting
- Edward R. Murrow Award
- GLAAD Media Award for promoting LGBTQ+ visibility
- National Order of Honour and Merit (Haiti) for earthquake coverage
Physical Statistics
- Height: 5’10” (178 cm)
- Weight: Approx. 167 lbs (76 kg)
- Hair Color: Silver/Gray
- Eye Color: Blue
- Body Build: Athletic
- Sexuality: Gay
Quotes
- “The truth is not always easy to find, but it’s always worth seeking.”
- “I think being different, being bold, being yourself is what makes you interesting.”
- “Hope is not a plan, but it is essential.”
Favorites
- Book: To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
- Food: Italian cuisine
- Travel Destination: Myanmar
- Hobby: Photography
- TV Show: 60 Minutes
Salary & Net Worth
As of 2025, Anderson Cooper is estimated to earn an annual salary of $20–$25 million from CNN, making him the highest-paid anchor at the network. His total net worth is valued at approximately $220 million, bolstered by book deals, speaking engagements, and inheritance from his mother, Gloria Vanderbilt. (Sources: Forbes, Celebrity Net Worth, CNN reports)
Interesting Facts
- Anderson is a descendant of Cornelius Vanderbilt, one of America’s wealthiest families.
- He once worked as a child model for Ralph Lauren and Calvin Klein.
- He survived malaria while reporting in Africa.
- Cooper is known for his dry wit and viral on-air giggles, especially during CNN’s New Year’s Eve broadcasts.
- He has authored two best-selling memoirs.
Social Media Links
- Instagram: @andersoncooper
- Twitter/X: @andersoncooper
- Facebook: Anderson Cooper 360
- LinkedIn: Anderson Cooper
- YouTube: CNN Official Channel
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who is the highest-paid anchor at CNN in 2025?
Anderson Cooper is the highest-paid CNN anchor, earning an estimated $20–$25 million annually. - What is Anderson Cooper’s net worth?
His net worth is estimated at around $220 million as of 2025. - How old is Anderson Cooper?
He is 58 years old, born on June 3, 1967. - Is Anderson Cooper married?
He is currently single but co-parents two children with his former partner Benjamin Maisani. - What shows does Anderson Cooper host?
He anchors Anderson Cooper 360° on CNN and contributes to 60 Minutes on CBS. - Has Anderson Cooper won any awards?
Yes, he has won multiple Emmy Awards, a Peabody Award, and other journalism honors.
Conclusion
Anderson Cooper stands as a trailblazer in American journalism, admired for his fearless reporting, authenticity, and commitment to truth. As CNN’s highest-paid anchor, his influence extends well beyond the newsroom, inspiring audiences worldwide. If you found this biography insightful, please share it with friends and fellow news enthusiasts!
Sources: CNN, Forbes, Celebrity Net Worth, The New York Times, Variety, The Guardian.
