Anderson Cooper's recent exit from the CBS program '60 Minutes' has left the network's leadership in a state of shock and confusion. According to a report from Puck News, CBS News leadership, including editor-in-chief Bari Weiss, was under the impression that Cooper would be renewing his contract and continuing his role as a correspondent. Having spent nearly 20 years at '60 Minutes', his departure was unexpected, especially given that contract negotiations were reportedly close to being finalized.

Cooper's reported annual salary of $2 million at CBS, in addition to his earnings from CNN where he makes between $17-$18 million, indicates his significant value as a journalist. Sources within CBS have described the situation as one of 'total chaos,' highlighting the internal disarray following Cooper's decision to leave. As details emerged about the negotiations and their surprising turn of events, it became clear that many within CBS were unprepared for the news, resulting in frustration among management.

Furthermore, the report mentions potential changes in leadership dynamics at CNN, particularly if CBS’s parent company, Paramount, succeeds in acquiring Warner Bros., CNN's parent company. This could lead to significant shifts within the organizational structure and oversight of both networks. The overall sentiment within CBS is one of uncertainty and concern about the future direction of '60 Minutes' without Cooper.