In a heartfelt conversation, Anderson Cooper opened up about his decision to co-parent his son Wyatt with his ex-partner Benjamin Maisani. The CNN anchor, known for his serious demeanor on air, revealed his personal reasons behind this unique parenting arrangement. Anderson, who welcomed Wyatt via surrogacy in late April, wanted to ensure that his son is surrounded by love and support from multiple sources.

Anderson Cooper Reflects on His Own Childhood

Anderson Cooper, 52, reminisced about his childhood on The Howard Stern Show on May 12. He shared how his mother, Gloria Vanderbilt, wasn't the most nurturing parent, and after the untimely death of his father, Wyatt Cooper, in 1978, there was a void in his life. "I wish someone had stepped in when I was growing up," he confessed. "Someone who would take me to the ball game or just go out for lunch occasionally and talk," Anderson explained. Reflecting on those missed opportunities, he emphasized the importance of having a supportive adult figure in one's life.

Creating a Supportive Environment for Wyatt

Anderson is determined to provide Wyatt with the kind of support system he never had. "If something happens to me, or even if nothing does, I want Wyatt to have more people who love him and are part of his life," he said. Anderson sees this as an opportunity to surround Wyatt with multiple loving figures. "My ex is a great guy, and I think it's beneficial for Wyatt to have two parents if it's possible," he added. This decision reflects Anderson's deep commitment to ensuring Wyatt grows up in a nurturing and loving environment.

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Anderson Cooper’s Unique Family Dynamic

Anderson shared that his feelings of loneliness as a child motivated him to co-parent with Benjamin Maisani, the 47-year-old nightclub owner. Growing up, it was just Anderson, his late brother Carter, and his mother Gloria, who passed away in June 2019. "I don't really have a traditional family, so my friends have become my family," he explained. Benjamin, with whom Anderson was involved for a decade, fits perfectly into this dynamic. "He's a great guy, even though we didn't work out as a couple," Anderson admitted.

Defining Roles in the New Family

The 60 Minutes star revealed how they’ve already defined their respective roles in Wyatt's life. "My ex is French, so he’ll speak French to Wyatt and be like 'Papa,' while I’ll be 'Dad,'" Anderson joked. He added, "He’s already speaking French to Wyatt. I don’t even know what he’s saying—he could be turning the kid against me!" This lighthearted exchange highlights the playful and collaborative nature of their co-parenting arrangement.

Anderson and Benjamin were first linked as a couple in 2009, often spotted together in public. Their relationship lasted over nine years until Anderson confirmed their separation in a statement to USA Today in March 2018. Despite the end of their romantic relationship, they remain close friends and now share the joy of parenthood.

I want to share with you some joyful news. On Monday, I became a father. This is Wyatt Cooper. He is three days old. He is named after my father, who died when I was ten. I hope I can be as good a dad as he was. My son's middle name is Morgan. It's a family name on my mom's side. I know my mom and dad liked the name Morgan because I recently found a list they made 52 years ago when they were trying to think of names for me. Wyatt Morgan Cooper. My son. He was 7.2 lbs at birth, and he is sweet, and soft, and healthy and I am beyond happy. As a gay kid, I never thought it would be possible to have a child, and I’m grateful for all those who have paved the way, and for the doctors and nurses and everyone involved in my son's birth. Most of all, I am grateful to a remarkable surrogate who carried Wyatt, and watched over him lovingly, and tenderly, and gave birth to him. It is an extraordinary blessing – what she, and all surrogates give to families who can't have children. My surrogate has a beautiful family of her own, a wonderfully supportive husband, and kids, and I am incredibly thankful for all the support they have given Wyatt and me. My family is blessed to have this family in our lives I do wish my mom and dad and my brother, Carter, were alive to meet Wyatt, but I like to believe they can see him. I imagine them all together, arms around each other, smiling and laughing, happy to know that their love is alive in me and in Wyatt, and that our family continues.
A post shared by andersoncooper (@andersoncooper) on Apr 30, 2020 at 6:51pm PDT

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Honoring Family Legacy in Wyatt’s Name

Anderson may not have his mom Gloria or other family members around to enjoy Wyatt's company, but he honored their memory in a special way. In his Instagram announcement, Anderson shared the significance behind Wyatt's name. "He is named after my father, who died when I was 10," he wrote. "I hope I can be as good a dad as he was. My son’s middle name is Morgan. It’s a family name on my mom’s side. I know my mom and dad liked the name 'Morgan' because I recently found a list they made 52 years ago when they were trying to think of names for me," Anderson explained.

The TV personality marveled at the beauty of it all, saying, "Wyatt Morgan Cooper. My son. He was 7.2 pounds at birth, and he is sweet, soft, healthy, and I am beyond happy." This personal touch adds depth to Anderson's decision-making process and highlights his deep connection to his family’s legacy.

We wish Anderson and Benjamin all the best as they embark on this new and exciting journey together!