Anderson Cooper Acknowledges 30,000 DMs While Navigating Grief Through Voicemails
CNN’s silver-haired sage, Anderson Cooper, isn’t just anchoring news—he’s anchoring hearts. Recently, during a lively talk at Brooklyn’s On Air Fest, Cooper opened up about his podcast, “All There Is with Anderson Cooper,” where he dives deep into the intriguing and sometimes uncomfortable subject of grief. You know, that thing we all go through but rarely chat about over brunch.
Cooper revealed that since launching his grief-centric podcast, he’s been inundated with a staggering 6,000 voicemails from listeners. Yep, you read that right! “The first season we got about 46 hours of calls,” he disclosed, noting that almost 3,000 calls rolled in this season alone. Listening to these heartfelt messages has turned into quite the emotional rollercoaster for Cooper. “I’ve spent months of my life listening to these calls,” he admitted, embracing both the profound and often painful insights shared by listeners. Fun fact: these raw, real-life experiences have even coaxed tears from the usually composed newsman, marking a personal journey through grief as he resonates with the stories of others.
But that’s not all—Cooper’s Instagram Direct Messages are equally bustling, with around 30,000 messages from fans clamoring for a response. Despite the overwhelming volume, he makes an effort to connect, especially concerning grief, often replying with a quick word or even a voice note. “I don’t want to hurt their feelings,” Cooper revealed, showcasing his dedication to offering support. He’s even struck up phone friendships with some fans, reaching out to individuals who need a listening ear.
“I’m in constant contact with a number of people,” said Cooper, who might just be the living embodiment of the saying, “It’s not about what you know, but who you know.” This heartwarming revelation isn’t just good PR; it reflects a broader trend in media, where audiences crave authentic connections with their idols. In a landscape filled with influencers promoting a polished, filtered life, Cooper is a breath of fresh air, proving that leading with empathy and understanding can create lasting bonds that transcend screens. New episodes of “All There Is” drop every Wednesday—mark your calendars!
Sources: Celebrity Storm Wire and People Magazine, The Verge, The Cut
