Image Credit: CBS News
For a considerable time, “60 Minutes” has stood as one of television journalism’s most esteemed programs, featuring correspondents such as CNN anchor Anderson Cooper. He dedicated nearly two decades to reporting for the CBS newsmagazine before concluding his tenure in May 2026. Cooper’s departure, which he attributed to a desire for more family time, occurred amidst a period of considerable flux at CBS News. Subsequently, a series of prominent firings, executive resignations, and shifts in leadership have fueled conjecture regarding the iconic program’s future.
Below, discover whether “60 Minutes” is facing cancellation and who has departed the show in recent months.
Is ‘60 Minutes’ Being Canceled?
No, “60 Minutes” has not been canceled. CBS has not announced any intentions to discontinue the storied newsmagazine, which is anticipated to proceed into its 59th season. Nevertheless, inquiries concerning the show’s trajectory have escalated following a series of dismissals, exits, and leadership adjustments under the purview of CBS News editor-in-chief Bari Weiss.
Sharyn Alfonsi, Correspondent, 60 MINUTES. Photo: Michele Crowe/CBS ©2023 CBS Broadcasting, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Who Was Fired From ‘60 Minutes’?
A number of notable individuals associated with “60 Minutes” have been terminated in the past few weeks. This upheaval commenced with the dismissal of executive producer Tanya Simon, followed by the terminations of correspondents Sharyn Alfonsi and Cecilia Vega. On June 2, 2026, veteran correspondent Scott Pelley was also let go after openly voicing criticism of Weiss and questioning the credentials of the recently appointed executive producer Nick Bilton during a staff assembly. Pelley had been affiliated with CBS News since 1989 and was among the most recognizable figures on the program.
CECILIA VEGA, Correspondent, 60 MINUTES. Cecilia Vega is an Emmy Award-winning journalist and 60 MINUTES correspondent who joined the CBS newsmagazine in 2023. Photos: Michele Crowe/CBS News©2023 CBS Broadcasting, Inc. All Rights Reserved
“Upon the program’s stewardship transitioning to my colleagues and myself, our mandate was to energetically advance into a new era of media technology while safeguarding the principles our audience anticipates,” Pelley articulated in a statement. “Now, the new proprietor of our network is discarding this institution, seemingly to gain momentary favor with the Trump administration. The loss is profoundly distressing.”
He further commented, “I conclude my 37-year tenure at CBS with a singular sentiment—a heart overflowing with appreciation for the individuals at CBS News who fostered and enhanced my work, frequently at the peril of their own lives. I hold out hope for a time when those individuals and their ideals are once again recognized—a time when reason, capability, and bravery are restored.”
Pictured: Anderson Cooper, 60 MINUTES Correspondent. Photo: Michele Crowe/CBS ©2023 CBS Broadcasting, Inc. All Rights Reserved
Who Has Left ‘60 Minutes’ Recently?
“60 Minutes” has witnessed a significant number of departures in 2026. Long-serving executive producer Bill Owens resigned in April, citing concerns over preserving the program’s editorial autonomy. Not long after, Cooper announced his departure from the show after nearly two decades, explaining his wish to devote more time to his family.