Anderson Cooper, a prominent journalist and television personality, has recently been involved in several notable events and shared personal reflections:

1. Co-Hosting CNN’s New Year’s Eve Live

Continuing their annual tradition, Anderson Cooper co-hosted CNN’s “New Year’s Eve Live” alongside Andy Cohen. The broadcast featured a lineup of celebrity guests and musical performances, including appearances by Meghan Trainor, Sting, Diplo, Patti LaBelle, Lil Jon, and Shania Twain. The event was broadcast live from Times Square, New York City, starting at 8:00 p.m. ET on December 31, 2024.

2. Personal Reflections on New Year’s Eve

During the broadcast, Cooper opened up about his personal history with New Year’s Eve, revealing that he once “hated” the holiday due to the passing of his father on January 5, 1978. He shared that this loss filled him with fear and loneliness as a child, leading to a deep aversion to New Year’s celebrations for many years. Cooper began working on the holiday as a coping mechanism and has been hosting the New Year’s Eve broadcast since 2002. Over time, he has come to enjoy the event, particularly appreciating the company of his co-host Andy Cohen and the viewers who may also be grieving or feeling alone. He emphasized that they are not alone, and the show aims to provide a sense of community and support.

3. On-Air Moments and Interactions

The New Year’s Eve broadcast included several memorable moments, such as Cooper and Cohen taking tequila shots at the top of each hour, a tradition they resumed after a hiatus in 2022. Cooper’s reactions to the shots, including giggling and struggling to swallow, added a lighthearted touch to the festivities. Additionally, Cooper reacted to a clip of co-host Andy Cohen dancing at the Las Vegas Sphere during a Dead and Company concert, showcasing their camaraderie and on-air chemistry.

These recent events highlight Anderson Cooper’s continued presence in broadcast journalism and his willingness to share personal experiences with his audience, fostering a deeper connection with viewers.