As if the cancellation of The Late Show with Stephen Colbert wasn’t enough, CBS is undergoing another significant change behind the scenes. This time, it’s affecting 60 Minutes, the iconic news magazine program that has been captivating viewers for nearly six decades. With multiple journalists and correspondents speaking out, it’s clear that the program is undergoing a transformation, led by the new editor-in-chief, Bari Weiss.
Anderson Cooper’s Departure
Anderson Cooper, a veteran reporter, made his final appearance on 60 Minutes on May 17, 2026. He chose to leave his position at CBS to focus on his role at CNN and to spend more time with his family. In his farewell broadcast, Cooper expressed his hope that the core of 60 Minutes would remain unchanged despite the evolution of the program.
Cecilia Vega’s Firing
Just days after Cooper’s departure, Cecilia Vega, the first Latina correspondent to join 60 Minutes, announced her firing on May 29, 2026. Vega’s contract was set to expire in March 2027. In a statement, she accused CBS of attempting to control her team’s reporting and insert political bias into their stories. Vega mentioned that her producing teams had held back on submitting story pitches due to fear of internal repercussions. She also shared that many colleagues had to fight to maintain editorial independence, a struggle she herself had to endure.
Sharyn Alfonsi’s Contract Termination
Days before Vega’s firing, Sharyn Alfonsi announced that her contract had not been renewed. Alfonsi, a seasoned journalist, had been a part of 60 Minutes for many years. Her departure, like Vega’s, was met with speculation and concern from the media community.
What’s Next for 60 Minutes?
The departures and changes at 60 Minutes have left many questions unanswered. Bari Weiss, the new editor-in-chief, has been at the helm of these changes. However, there’s been little information about her vision for the program or the specific reasons behind these departures. As the program continues to evolve, it’s clear that 60 Minutes is facing a period of significant change and uncertainty.
FAQ
Why did Anderson Cooper leave 60 Minutes?
Anderson Cooper left 60 Minutes to focus on his role at CNN and to spend more time with his family.
What happened to Cecilia Vega?
Cecilia Vega, the first Latina correspondent on 60 Minutes, was fired by CBS. She accused the network of trying to control her team’s reporting and insert political bias into their stories.
What about Sharyn Alfonsi?
Sharyn Alfonsi’s contract was not renewed, leading to her departure from 60 Minutes.
Who is Bari Weiss?
Bari Weiss is the new editor-in-chief of 60 Minutes. She has been leading the changes at the program, but there’s been little information about her vision for it.
As 60 Minutes continues to evolve, it’s clear that the program is facing a period of significant change and uncertainty. The departures of Cooper, Vega, and Alfonsi, along with the appointment of Weiss, have left many questions unanswered. However, one thing is certain: 60 Minutes is not the same program it was a decade ago, and viewers can expect to see more changes in the future.










