Anderson Cooper, a renowned journalist and television personality, captivates audiences with his incisive reporting and charismatic presence. As of 2025, Anderson Cooper’s age is 58, born on June 3, 1967. His net worth is estimated at $60 million, primarily from his CNN salary and media ventures. Cooper is not married but co-parents two sons with his ex-partner, Benjamin Maisani. His salary at CNN is reportedly $20 million annually. Currently single, Cooper prioritizes fatherhood over dating. This article explores his illustrious career, personal life, and relationship status, offering fresh insights into his journey.
Anderson Cooper’s Age and Early Life
Born in Manhattan, New York, Anderson Cooper’s age in 2025 is 58 years old. Growing up in the Vanderbilt family, he was exposed to wealth and media from a young age. His mother, Gloria Vanderbilt, was a fashion icon, and his great-great-great-grandfather, Cornelius Vanderbilt, built a railroad empire. Despite this privilege, Cooper faced tragedy early: his father, Wyatt Cooper, died during heart surgery when Anderson was 10, and his brother, Carter, died by suicide in 1988. These events shaped his empathetic approach to journalism, driving him to cover human struggles globally.
Cooper’s early media exposure included being photographed for Harper’s Bazaar as a baby and working as a child model for brands like Ralph Lauren. He attended the prestigious Dalton School and graduated from Yale University in 1989 with a degree in political science. His time at Yale included internships with the CIA, sparking his interest in global affairs. For more on his early life, see his Wikipedia page.
Anderson Cooper’s Net Worth and Salary
Anderson Cooper’s net worth is estimated at $60 million in 2025, a figure grounded in his long-standing career at CNN and other media projects. His annual salary at CNN, where he hosts Anderson Cooper 360°, is approximately $20 million, reflecting his value as a top-tier journalist. Additional income streams include his work as a 60 Minutes correspondent and best-selling books like Vanderbilt: The Rise and Fall of an American Dynasty. Contrary to earlier assumptions, Cooper inherited only $1.5 million from his mother, Gloria Vanderbilt, who passed away in 2019, as much of the Vanderbilt fortune had diminished.
Cooper’s financial discipline is notable. In a 2020 interview on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, he humorously described himself as “inherently cheap,” opting for hand-me-downs for his son Wyatt. His investments, including real estate in New York and Connecticut, contribute to his wealth. Unlike many celebrities, Cooper avoids lavish spending, focusing on financial security for his children. For detailed financial insights, visit Celebrity Net Worth.
Career Highlights and Achievements
Anderson Cooper’s career spans over three decades, marked by fearless reporting and versatility. Starting as a fact-checker at Channel One, he gained prominence by freelancing in conflict zones like Myanmar and Rwanda, often with minimal resources. His raw, on-the-ground reporting led to a correspondent role at ABC News in 1995, followed by a stint as co-anchor of World News Now. In 2001, Cooper joined CNN, launching Anderson Cooper 360° in 2003, which remains a cornerstone of cable news.
Cooper’s coverage of events like Hurricane Katrina, the Haiti earthquake, and the Indian Ocean tsunami earned him multiple Emmy Awards, a Peabody Award, and a GLAAD Media Award. His ability to humanize complex stories resonates with viewers. Beyond news, Cooper hosted The Mole and guest-hosted Jeopardy! in 2021, showcasing his range. He also co-hosts CNN’s New Year’s Eve Live with Andy Cohen, blending humor with his serious persona. Follow his professional updates on CNN’s official site.
Personal Life and Relationship Status
Anderson Cooper’s personal life is as compelling as his professional achievements. Not married, Cooper was in a long-term relationship with Benjamin Maisani, a nightclub owner, from 2009 until their split in 2018. Despite the breakup, they remain close, co-parenting their sons, Wyatt Morgan (born 2020) and Sebastian Luke (born 2022), via surrogacy. Maisani has adopted both boys, and the family lives together in New York and Connecticut, creating a unique co-parenting dynamic.
In a 2023 People interview, Cooper confirmed he is single and not actively dating, stating, “I love spending time with my kids so much that the idea of taking any time away seems impossible.” He expressed profound joy in fatherhood, noting, “This is the best time in my life.” His friendship with Andy Cohen, often mistaken for romance, is strictly platonic, as clarified on The Howard Stern Show in 2022. For more on his family, check People’s coverage.
Anderson Cooper’s Dating History and Current Stance
Anderson Cooper’s dating history has drawn public interest, especially after he publicly came out as gay in 2012. His relationship with Maisani was his most prominent, lasting nearly a decade. Since their split, Cooper has kept his romantic life private, focusing on fatherhood and work. In a 2023 SiriusXM interview, he shared, “I’ve got a great love affair with my kids right now—it’s the best thing ever.” This shift reflects a broader trend among high-profile figures prioritizing family over public relationships.
Cooper’s openness about his sexuality has inspired many, making him a role model in the LGBTQ+ community. His decision to co-parent with Maisani, despite their breakup, offers a modern perspective on family dynamics, challenging traditional norms. For insights into his relationship timeline, visit People’s relationship overview.
Unique Insights and Real-World Impact
Cooper’s career offers lessons in resilience and authenticity. His ability to navigate personal tragedies—losing his father and brother—while building a global platform is remarkable. A 2021 study by the Pew Research Center noted that journalists like Cooper, who blend empathy with rigor, significantly influence public trust in media. His coverage of crises, like the Haiti earthquake, not only informed but also spurred humanitarian aid, with donations rising 15% post-broadcast, per Red Cross data.
His co-parenting arrangement with Maisani provides a case study in modern family structures. Unlike traditional models, their setup prioritizes stability for their children, reflecting evolving societal norms. Cooper’s frugality, despite his wealth, resonates with audiences seeking relatable role models. His social media presence, including Instagram (@andersoncooper), offers glimpses into his life as a father and journalist, fostering a personal connection with fans.
Biography Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Anderson Hays Cooper |
| Age | 58 (born June 3, 1967) |
| Net Worth | $60 million (2025 estimate) |
| Salary | $20 million annually (CNN) |
| Marital Status | Single, not married |
| Partner (Former) | Benjamin Maisani (2009–2018) |
| Children | Wyatt Morgan (born 2020), Sebastian Luke (born 2022) |
| Education | Yale University, B.A. in Political Science (1989) |
| Career Start | Fact-checker at Channel One (early 1990s) |
| Major Shows | Anderson Cooper 360°, 60 Minutes, New Year’s Eve Live |
| Awards | 19 Emmy Awards, Peabody Award, GLAAD Media Award |
| Notable Books | Vanderbilt: The Rise and Fall of an American Dynasty, Dispatches from the Edge |
| Height | 5 feet 10 inches |
| Siblings | Carter Vanderbilt Cooper (deceased), Leopold and Christopher Stokowski (half-brothers) |
| Parents | Gloria Vanderbilt (mother), Wyatt Emory Cooper (father) |
| Social Media | Instagram (@andersoncooper) |
Conclusion
Anderson Cooper remains a towering figure in journalism, balancing a high-profile career with a fulfilling personal life. At 58, his $60 million net worth and $20 million salary reflect his success, while his focus on fatherhood over dating underscores his priorities. His journey from a Vanderbilt heir to a trusted journalist offers unique insights into resilience and modern family dynamics. For the latest updates, follow him on Twitter (@andersoncooper) or explore his work on CNN.
