Anderson Cooper signs with top agent as CNN role looks uncertain with network’s concerns over $18M salary

NEW YORK CITY, NEW YORK: Anderson Cooper may be signaling a seismic shift in his career trajectory, as the longtime CNN anchor makes a high-profile switch in representation just as whispers grow louder that the network could be looking to part ways with its most expensive star.

RadarOnline.com has learned that the 58-year-old journalist, who reportedly earns a staggering $18 million annually, has dropped his long-standing talent agency, United Talent Agency (UTA), in favor of Hollywood powerhouse Creative Artists Agency (CAA), which is co-chaired by Bryan Lourd.

Insiders say Anderson Cooper is exploring new horizons

CAA's Bryan Lourd already represents a powerhouse lineup, with A-list stars like George Clooney, Brad Pitt, Daniel Craig, and Scarlett Johansson among his clients. His agency leans heavily into the heart of Hollywood, focusing more on film talent than TV anchors or broadcast personalities.

The move, while not confirmed as a career departure, is being interpreted by media insiders as a strategic signal that Cooper may be preparing to venture beyond cable news. One source close to the matter said the decision feels like a “preemptive pivot” amid growing concerns that CNN’s parent company is actively tightening its financial belt.

A source recently told Rob Shuter on his Hollywood Substack that, “Anderson’s pulling less than 700,000 viewers a night. Meanwhile, Kaitlan Collins is clocking higher ratings for a fifth of the salary.”

While Cooper remains a recognizable face in American journalism, network insiders claim his show’s nightly viewership reportedly under 700,000 no longer justifies his hefty paycheck.

“Anderson’s exploring his options. He knows the writing’s on the teleprompter,” one insider said, hinting that the Emmy-winning journalist may already be eyeing opportunities outside the newsroom.

CNN denies rumors that Anderson Cooper may leave CNN

Despite the mounting speculation, CNN has officially denied the rumors. A network spokesperson called reports of Cooper’s potential departure completely false. Still, the agent switch has fanned the flames, especially given CAA’s strong ties to Hollywood over news broadcasting.

Another source added, “He’s a Vanderbilt. He doesn’t need CNN, but CNN can’t afford him anymore.”

Cooper’s tenure at CNN hasn’t been without turbulence. Earlier this year, he sparked controversy after snapping at former New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu during a live broadcast.

After Sununu defended Elon Musk’s anti-bureaucracy efforts, Cooper shot back with a sharp “Don’t be a d***.” The anchor later issued an apology, calling his remark “rude.”

“I apologize. I don’t know why I said that. I feel bad about it,” he said at the time.