Anderson Cooper began hosting CNN’s New Year’s Eve coverage from Times Square in 2002 and quickly became a popular event. In 2007, comedian Kathy Griffin joined as Cooper’s official cohost, bringing humor and controversy with her dirty jokes and cursing. Despite Griffin’s antics, CNN stood by her until 2017 when she received backlash for posing with a fake severed head of then-President Donald Trump. Cooper publicly condemned the photo shoot, leading to CNN cutting ties with Griffin.
Following Griffin’s departure, Cooper teamed up with friend Andy Cohen as his official cohost for the 2017-18 broadcast. The duo brought a light-hearted atmosphere to the show and began a tradition of taking shots to celebrate the event. Cohen made headlines during the 2021-22 broadcast when he threw shade at Mayor Bill de Blasio and Ryan Seacrest, resulting in an alcohol ban for both Cooper and Cohen for one year. Despite the occasional controversy, the New Year’s Eve coverage continued to be a popular and entertaining event for viewers.
Over the years, CNN’s New Year’s Eve coverage has had many memorable moments that have made headlines. From Kathy Griffin’s controversial jokes to Andy Cohen’s outbursts, the broadcast has never failed to entertain audiences. Despite the occasional controversies, Anderson Cooper has remained a staple of the event, bringing his wit and charm as the host. The addition of cohosts like Griffin and Cohen has added humor and intrigue to the broadcast, making it a must-watch event for many viewers.
The partnership between Anderson Cooper and Kathy Griffin brought a unique dynamic to CNN’s New Year’s Eve coverage. Griffin’s comedic style and willingness to push boundaries contrasted with Cooper’s more conservative approach, creating a balance that resonated with viewers. However, Griffin’s departure from the show in 2017 marked the end of an era, and Cooper’s subsequent collaboration with Andy Cohen brought a different energy to the broadcast. The chemistry between Cooper and Cohen added a fresh perspective to the event and solidified their status as a popular hosting duo.
Despite the controversies surrounding the show, CNN’s New Year’s Eve coverage has remained a popular tradition for many viewers. The broadcast continues to captivate audiences with its mix of humor, entertainment, and occasional unexpected moments. Anderson Cooper’s hosting abilities and on-screen chemistry with various cohosts have contributed to the success of the event over the years. Whether it’s Griffin’s controversial jokes or Cohen’s playful banter, the New Year’s Eve coverage consistently delivers memorable moments that keep viewers tuning in year after year.
In conclusion, Anderson Cooper’s tenure as the host of CNN’s New Year’s Eve coverage has been marked by memorable moments, controversies, and entertaining collaborations with cohosts like Kathy Griffin and Andy Cohen. Despite challenges and changes over the years, the broadcast has remained a staple for many viewers, offering a mix of humor, entertainment, and unexpected surprises. Cooper’s ability to navigate the ups and downs of live television has solidified his reputation as a respected journalist and engaging host. As the broadcast continues to evolve, one thing remains constant – CNN’s New Year’s Eve coverage is a must-watch event that brings joy and excitement to audiences around the world.
