CNN's Anderson Cooper's antics on TV spark speculation that it’s a strategy to move on with big payout

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Anderson Cooper's "erratic behavior" is fueling rumors that he may be deliberately stirring up trouble to secure a "golden" exit from CNN. 

His latest on-air outburst, where he hurled an X-rated insult at former New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu, has raised eyebrows. Sununu had been defending Elon Musk ​and the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) when Cooper's remark caught viewers off guard.

This incident follows previous reprimands for breaking CNN's on-air drinking ban and making controversial jokes, leading to speculation that Cooper might be trying to pave the way for his own departure with a golden handshake.

CNN realizes Anderson Cooper 'isn't bringing in the numbers anymore'

Insiders speaking with Radar Online have speculated that Anderson Cooper's erratic behavior may be a calculated effort to prepare for his departure from CNN.

Sources revealed that CNN executives were outraged after Cooper's latest antics, which included breaking the network’s on-air drinking ban during New Year's Eve alongside co-host Andy Cohen and making controversial jokes about doing illegal drugs with guest Diplo.

A close source to CNN described Cooper as “becoming a liability,” adding that “ratings are already in the tank, and Anderson's erratic behavior isn't helping.” The insider continued, “The network is realizing that high-priced talent like Anderson isn't bringing in the numbers anymore."

There is growing speculation that Cooper is intentionally causing chaos to force CNN to part ways with him, potentially securing a golden handshake payout in the process.

The source added, "CNN is already a joke – and Anderson is making it worse. There's speculation he's creating all this trouble to force them to get rid of him – so he gets a golden handshake payout."

Sources suggest Anderson Cooper is considering leaving CNN to work with pal Andy Cohen

Insiders have reported that Anderson Cooper, once a key figure at CNN, has seen his ratings drop significantly as the network lost nearly half of its viewers following Donald Trump's election victory in November 2024.

CNN's viewership plummeted by an astonishing 47%, losing more than 1.4 million viewers, leaving it with only 632,000 during primetime.

Under CNN's new boss, Mark Thompson, who is focusing on a lean, digital-first approach, other major personalities like Cooper are now at risk. 

This shift follows the demotion of CNN veteran Wolf Blitzer. Sources suggest that Cooper, who no longer finds television enjoyable, is considering leaving for lighter work with his friend Andy Cohen at Bravo. 

An industry insider noted, "Anderson doesn't need the money. Television has always been a fun hobby for him – not a job. Now, it's just not fun anymore. He's over it." 

Another source added that Cooper has never seen himself as a hard-news anchor and would prefer to explore celebrity-focused content with Cohen, a move CNN might be willing to support. 

The insider also pointed out, "The network has reprimanded Cooper for his on-air outburst. But how many times can you slap someone on the wrist before you realize it's time to cut ties?"