Anderson Cooper announced on Monday morning that his mother, Gloria Vanderbilt, passed away at age 95.
Following the death of his mother on Monday, Anderson Cooper was absent from his primetime CNN show, Anderson Cooper 360. But he recorded a touching eulogy of Vanderbilt that aired at the top of the show.
“I knew it from the moment I was born, and I’ll know it for the rest of my life. And in the end, what greater gift can a mother give to her son?” @andersoncooper on the love that his mother, Gloria Vanderbilt, had for him.
She died this morning at age 95. https://t.co/pX9xNLMFNu pic.twitter.com/bGrJqaTNQ6
— CNN (@CNN) June 18, 2019
His colleagues and other celebrities were very moved by the segment and many shared their support on social media.
Deepest condolences, @andersoncooper https://t.co/v3sV28TZMD
— Van Jones (@VanJones68) June 17, 2019
Actor Russell Crowe called the eulogy “beautiful.” It was indeed.
This is beautiful . Sorry for your loss @andersoncooper https://t.co/FN5j9NJ1bX
— Russell Crowe (@russellcrowe) June 18, 2019
Writer, director, and actor Kevin Smith pointed out that while this was obviously very difficult for Cooper, there’s no one better to do it.
No journalist should have to cover their Mom’s death – and yet who better to eulogize a parent than the child? My heart goes out to you, @andersoncooper. It’s very clear how much you loved your Mom, and vice versa. Cherish that priceless giggle video. It’s amazing. Just like her. https://t.co/pSYtUDYCjQ
— KevinSmith (@ThatKevinSmith) June 17, 2019
David Axelrod joined other CNN colleagues in sympathizing with Cooper and sharing his appreciation for the tribute to his mom.
Anderson’s tribute to his mom on @AC360 tonight was extraordinary and moving.
— David Axelrod (@davidaxelrod) June 18, 2019
Ana Navarro remembers how much Cooper and his mother loved each other, something that was very clear in the video.
Heartbroken by the passing of Gloria Vanderbilt. She led a full life. Did amazing things. She & her son, @andersoncooper, adored each-other. They went through great grief together. She never stopped looking up at the sky in search of rainbows after a storm. So, so sorry AC. 🌈
— Ana Navarro-Cárdenas (@ananavarro) June 17, 2019
Jane Sanders, wife of Presidential candidate Bernie Sanders, offered her condolences.
What a beautiful tribute to your mom @andersoncooper Thank you for sharing your memories of a lovely, talented, loving woman. I’m sorry for your loss. https://t.co/LMJazUz0Yz
— Jane O'Meara Sanders (@janeosanders) June 18, 2019
Model and “Top Chef” host Padma Lakshmi remember Vanderbilt fondly. The wide spectrum of people who were touched by her show what a wonderful life she lived.
Sending all my love to @andersoncooper. Watching you and your mom together was a beautiful thing.
— Padma Lakshmi (@PadmaLakshmi) June 17, 2019