
Anderson Cooper isn’t a fan of rockin’ around a confetti-filled Times Square.
Ahead of his highly anticipated return to CNN’s New Year’s Eve Live, the journalist discussed his honest feelings about ringing in the new year in the city.
You know, as someone who’s seen a lot of New Year’s Eves, especially in a city like New York, I’ll be honest – I really don’t love the fuss! I always say, the best plan is to stay cozy at home and enjoy some TV. Trying to get around is a nightmare – Ubers are impossible to find, everyone’s out and often a little too enthusiastic, and let’s not forget the usual cold, rainy weather! Honestly, I’ve always preferred to just skip the whole scene and relax.
Even though he’s a busy news anchor, Anderson Cooper has grown to enjoy New York City’s holiday celebrations. He’s hosted the city’s annual televised New Year’s Eve celebration for over twenty years – a tradition he started simply to have something to do during the holidays.
I started handling everything on my own because it reminded me of doing many live broadcasts for CNN. Plus, nobody else was willing to work on New Year’s Eve, so I figured I’d take it on – it seemed like the best way to solve the problem.
After hosting the New Year’s Eve show by himself for a few years, Anderson started sharing hosting duties with celebrities, including his close friend Andy Cohen. As they’ve continued to work together and enjoy their fun and often chaotic dynamic, Anderson has begun to actually look forward to ringing in the New Year.
He said he was particularly looking forward to this event. Andy had called him earlier to say he should step back and let Andy handle things, and he was perfectly fine with that.

Oh my gosh, you guys, watching Andy and Anderson together is EVERYTHING. They seriously get each other through those long broadcasts, and it’s hilarious! They’ll be all supportive, then suddenly just launch into roasting each other – and let’s be real, there’s usually a little alcohol involved. Last year was epic – Andy totally grilled Anderson about his love life after Anderson dared to ask if he’d, like, hook up with Bridget Everett from Somebody Somewhere! It was amazing, I was dying!
Anderson, who publicly came out as gay in 2012, said he didn’t understand the question. Andy then responded by questioning if Anderson had ever been intimate with a woman, a point he asserted had already been made clear on CNN.
Keep reading for a look back at the celebrities who rung in 2025 in a special way…

Okay, so I’ve seen the photos, and honestly, this couple absolutely nailed the Disney magic! They really kicked off the celebrations at Disneyland, and it was just the sweetest moment – they shared a kiss right as midnight hit. Talk about a fairytale ending to the night! It’s those little, romantic gestures that make memories, you know?

Meanwhile, Kourtney’s ex counted down with their 10-year-old son Reign.

The Rhode Beauty CEO closed out the new year in the best way: with In-N-Out and a dirty martini.

The Fenty Beauty founder kept it casual by counting down the seconds ’til 2025 from home.

The Vanderpump Rules star and her boyfriend Daniel Wai shared a smooch at midnight.

The Pretty Little Liars alum got cheeky on a boat this New Year’s Eve.

Alix kicked off her New Year’s resolutions by exercising right before 2025 began.

The former star of Vanderpump Rules celebrated with friends Lance Bass and Cortney Erin this year.

The model and NBA player soaked up some vitamins right before 2025 officially arrived.

The “Money” singer appeared to show off her moves at a club on NYE.

The Olympic gymnast received flowers from her husband, Jonathan Owens, one last time in 2024, but fans can expect to see plenty more of their relationship in the new year.

The Nickelodeon alum had a low-key celebration at home to welcome the new year.

The Summer House star finished off 2024 with a final workout and shared a glimpse of what he’s planning for 2025.

It was a family affair for this Shameless alum as she rang in 2025 with her parents.

The Our Little Secret actress—who lives in Dubai—had quite the view during the turn of the year.

The couple welcomed 2025 by dancing the night away in London.

Country singer Kelsea Ballerini looked happy and relaxed with her boyfriend, Chase Stokes, in a photo that seemed to be taken on a beach reminiscent of the Outer Banks.

The couple had a very zen end to 2024 as they rang in the new year from Tokyo.

The actress from The Queen’s Gambit shared a memorable night with friends, posting a picture of their muddy shoes as proof.

The Modern Family actress posted a cheeky snap before ringing in 2025.

Looking forward to what’s ahead, the Baywatch actress enjoyed a scenic New Year’s Eve abroad.

Okay, let me tell you, Dua Lipa totally nailed the New Year’s Eve vibe! She looked incredible – seriously magical – while holding a drink as she got ready to ring in the new year. It was a perfect, effortless look!
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2025-12-19 19:19