Anderson Cooper rejects working with CBS chief Bari Weiss amid $111 bn Paramount‑CNN merger talks

Anderson Cooper, who left his role on 60 Minutes in May 2026, reportedly told CNN colleagues that he does not want to work with CBS News editor‑in‑chief Bari Weiss. The comments come as Paramount is finalizing a $111 billion acquisition of Warner Bros Discovery, the parent company of CNN, sparking speculation that Weiss could be placed in charge of the network.

Cooper said the decision reflects his desire to spend more time with his family, and his spokeswoman declined to comment. The merger would make CBS and CNN corporate siblings, potentially re‑uniting Cooper with Weiss after his earlier exit from 60 Minutes. Other CBS News figures, including Sharyn Alfonsi and Cecilia Vega, have also left or been dismissed amid the shake‑up.