Anderson Cooper’s Surprising Inheritance Revealed After Gloria Vanderbilt’s Death

NEW YORK, NY – Anderson Cooper, noted CNN anchor and author, recently discussed his modest inheritance following the passing of his renowned mother, Gloria Vanderbilt, in June 2019. Despite being a descendant of the illustrious Vanderbilt family, which includes the legendary industrialist Cornelius Vanderbilt, Cooper emphasized that his wealth comes primarily from his own career.

In a 2014 interview, Cooper clarified his mother’s stance on financial support, stating, “My mom’s made clear to me that there’s no trust fund. There’s none of that, and I don’t believe in inheriting money. Who’s inherited a lot of money that has gone on to do things in their own life?” This perspective has shaped his approach to wealth, driving him toward independence.

Upon Vanderbilt’s death, reports indicated Cooper received $1.5 million, a figure that contrasts with public perceptions of the Vanderbilt wealth. This amount constituted the majority of Vanderbilt’s estate while his half-brother, Leopold Stanislaus Stokowski, inherited her New York City apartment.

Since 2001, Cooper has been the face of CNN, hosting his nightly show that has garnered a significant following. His career extends beyond the network; he has produced best-selling books like Vanderbilt: The Rise and Fall of an American Dynasty and The Rainbow Comes and Goes: A Mother and Son on Life, Love and Loss. Additionally, Cooper has a podcast titled All There Is With Anderson Cooper.

Cooper’s estimated net worth varies significantly, with sources estimating between $60 million and $200 million, primarily attributed to his work in journalism and other media endeavors. As one of the highest-paid anchors in the industry, Cooper reportedly earns around $20 million annually at CNN.

The story of Anderson Cooper is marked by both legacy and self-built success, and it serves as a testament to his professional accomplishments, distinctly separate from his family’s historical wealth.