In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, television personality Andy Cohen, 56, shares his candid thoughts on working alongside longtime friend Anderson Cooper, 57. Before co-hosting SiriusXM’s 10th Annual Radio Andy Holiday Hangout with Amy Sedaris in New York City on December 19, Cohen discussed his upcoming holiday plans, love for radio, and the challenges of hosting CNN’s New Year’s Eve Live. He humorously revealed that the most challenging part of the show is having to be the “straight guy” while Cooper enjoys a more relaxed demeanor during the final 90 minutes of the broadcast. This dynamic has become a fan favorite, showcasing the unique chemistry between these two seasoned broadcasters. The pair has hosted the New Year’s Eve special together for eight consecutive years, delighting viewers with their playful banter and unexpected moments.
A Decade of Friendship and Professional Partnership
In the heart of bustling New York City, Andy Cohen and Anderson Cooper have been gracing the screens with their annual New Year’s Eve special since 2016. On December 31, 2023, they once again took to Times Square to ring in the new year, bringing their signature blend of wit and camaraderie to the live audience and millions watching at home. Cohen, known for his role as host of Bravo’s popular shows, admitted that the most trying aspect of the event is maintaining composure while Cooper indulges in lighthearted laughter. “It’s almost like we switch roles,” Cohen explained, adding that he becomes the serious one responsible for hitting commercial breaks, while Cooper adopts a more jovial persona.
Their friendship extends beyond the studio, rooted in a shared history spanning over two decades. Initially introduced by a mutual friend who attempted to set them up romantically, Cohen and Cooper eventually connected on a platonic level several years later. Their bond deepened when both became fathers—Cohen to Benjamin and Lucy, and Cooper to Wyatt and Sebastian. Cohen fondly recalls how fatherhood has brought them even closer, joking about being “geriatric patients hobbling around chasing our children.”
Despite occasional mishaps, such as Cohen’s infamous 2021 slip-up where he insulted a competing broadcast, the duo continues to entertain audiences with their unscripted moments. Cohen expressed regret over his comments, acknowledging that he was under the influence of alcohol at the time. Yet, these incidents only add to the authenticity and charm of their partnership.
CNN’s New Year’s Eve Live will air live from Times Square starting at 8 p.m. ET on CNN and Max, promising another night of laughter and celebration as Cohen and Cooper take center stage once more.
From a journalist’s perspective, the enduring friendship between Cohen and Cooper serves as a reminder that genuine connections can transcend professional boundaries. Their ability to laugh at themselves and share vulnerable moments with the public is a testament to the power of authentic relationships in media. As fans eagerly anticipate each New Year’s Eve special, it’s clear that the chemistry between these two hosts is what keeps viewers coming back year after year.